CDC launches new respiratory virus tracker to predict local outbreaks

By: Jazsmin Halliburton

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched a new respiratory virus tracking website to predict spread in communities nationwide. The site shows the estimated growth of COVID-19, Influenza and Respiratory syncytial virus in Missouri.

The CDC launched the new website in early October, and it uses estimations to identify outbreak peaks two to three weeks sooner at the state level and a week and a half earlier at the community level.

In Missouri, the COVID-19 epidemic trend is labeled "likely growing," with a growth probability of 84%. Boone, Chariton, Cooper, Howard, Macon and Randolph counties have a combined COVID-19 growth probability of 78%.

For flu numbers, Missouri has a growth probability of over 99%. However, Mid-Missouri counties northwest of Boone show an epidemic trend of "not changing," with a 58% growth probability.

The combination of Callaway, Cole, Gasconage, Maries, Miller, Moniteau and Osage counties is categorized as "likely growing" with an Influenza growth probability of 77%.

The flu season officially began on Oct. 1. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, 34 people were admitted to the hospital for Influenza during the first week of October.

University Hospital saw 50 combined cases of Influenza A and Influenza B, according to an MU Health spokesperson.

Boone Health has reported 11 positive Influenza A cases and 16 positive cases of COVID-19 since Oct. 1.

Medical experts said older adults and people with certain underlying health conditions can face a higher risk of serious flu complications.

Adults 65 and older who also have conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes are at greater risk. Doctors suggest that people experiencing shortness of breath, a high heart rate, or low blood pressure should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.