Flu cases surge in the DMV: Here's what medical experts want you to know

WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates 24 million flu cases this season. 7News checked the latest data from D.C., Maryland and Virginia and learned cases are very high in this region.

D.C. reports more than 5,100 cases of the flu this season.

Maryland has more than 2,300 flu-related hospitalizations and officials said six adults and one child have died.

Respiratory activity is also high in Virginia with influenza causing more than 9% of all hospital visits.

RELATED | Virginia health officials urge flu vaccination after deaths of two children

We asked the Associate Medical Director of MedStar Health Urgent Care what kind of an impact she's seeing.

"In urgent care specifically over the last three weeks, we have seen about a three-fold increase in influenza A and B cases," said Amanda Joy, PA-C.

She continued, "We are seeing patients wait longer times in the [emergency departments] so we would recommend reaching out to your urgent cares and your primary care doctor to see if you can get evaluated."

Joy told 7News that COVID-19 and RSV cases are down.

To avoid influenza, she recommends getting a flu shot, wearing a mask, and washing your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds.

Also, if you're sick, stay home to limit the spread of the virus.