Flu symptoms sending many to Indianapolis-area hospitals

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Influenza and flu-like symptoms were contributing to more visits to Indianapolis-area emergency rooms than at any point during the past decade, officials said.

The primary complaint of 6.2% of ER visits in the week ending Dec. 28 was flu-like symptoms, according to the Marion County Health Department. The previous high of the past 10 years was about 5.3% during the 2017-18 flu season, The Indianapolis Star reported.

Health officials have urged those with mild or minor symptoms to see their doctor or go to an urgent care center. They said the recommendation came after hearing from area ER departments.

Typical symptoms of a mild flu are cough, sore throat, fever, muscle aches, headaches, fatigue and gastrointestinal issues. Health officials have recommended a flu shot for anyone at least 6 years old.

Indiana flu activity last week was higher than at any time during the last year's flu season, according to a state report.