COLUMBUS – Local health officials noted a downturn in flu activity earlier this month.
Flu intensity was moderate for the week ending March 19 and had decreased slightly from the week before, according to Columbus Public Health’s weekly flu activity update.
Labs reported 18.4 percent of the tests they administered came back positive for influenza, compared with 24.3 percent the week before, CPH spokesman Jose Rodriguez said.
The rate of emergency-room visits for both influenza-like-illness and respiratory symptoms also declined.
Officials also noted a decrease in sales of cough and cold remedies, thermometers, chest rubs, anti-fever medication for adults and children, throat lozenges and other medical products associated with battling flu symptoms.
Nationally flu activity decreased slightly during the week, but remained elevated, Rodriguez said.