Winter 2023 COVID-19 & Flu Update from Complete Health Partners
Back in the fall of 2022, the Influenza Virus, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) were in full force around Nashville. Shortly after that, strep throat took their place. Cases of all three of the illnesses have begun to decline in Nashville, but COVID-19 is not far behind. Now here we are again with another COVID-19 variant in front of us. This new variant, XBB.1.5, is already making a strong appearance in America.
Flu
Before we dive into the new variant’s details, let us start by discussing what we see in Influenza trends this winter. Surprisingly compared to the fall, flu cases have really tapered off. In early October at all three of our clinics, we were seeing mostly type A flu positive patients. Our staff is grateful for the decline but are still seeing a handful of type B positive patients. That said, we want to remind everyone that you can get the flu again even if you had it earlier in the season! Continue to wash your hands consistently and stay up to date on your vaccinations to protect you and your loved ones!
COVID-19
The newest variant of COVID-19 is the first recombinant variant we have seen. This means, XBB.1.5 was created by two Omicron variants merging. Unfortunately, this variant is the most transmissible one we have seen yet. The number of positive cases is climbing daily. XBB.1.5 cases make up more than 60% of COVID cases according to the CDC. Thankfully, for what we are seeing so far, this subvariant does not seem to be making people sicker than previous variants. The main concern is the health of immunocompromised and elderly communities, all other groups are showing symptoms of a mild cold. The most common symptoms we are seeing in the clinics for XBB.1.5 are the following:
- Fever/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headaches
Is It Too Late to Get Vaccinated?
If you have chosen to not get vaccinated earlier in the season, but have changed your mind, it is not too late! Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are still available. Although we currently do not offer the COVID-19 shot at our clinics, many local pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals do. Here is an interactive map from the CDC to find a location near you offering vaccines.
We do still offer COVID-19 and influenza testing at all 3 of our clinic locations. Our Sofia test, a flu/COVID combo test, gives us the ability to only swab you once to determine the illness! In conclusion, it is never too late to get vaccinated!
Nashville Area Urgent Care Clinics
6749 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209
629.203.7858
9am – 7pm, 7 days a week
166 E. Main Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.991.2855
9am – 7pm, 7 days a week