FORT PIERCE, Fla. — The highly transmissible COVID-19 variant omicron is coming at a time in the U.S. as the flu season intensifies.
Right now, a small uptick of coronavirus and flu cases are being reported in St. Lucie County despite the low volume of hospitalizations, according to health experts.
Dr. Michael Bakerman, a chief medical officer at Lawnwood Medical Center, said the complication for this year as opposed to last year is the mix between COVID-19 and flu.
"We're expecting with people to be out and about this year, that we will have a significant presence with flu in combination with COVID that could really strain the health care system. So, that's a big concern out there," Bakerman said.
He said wearing a mask, proper ventilation and washing your hands is an important step to protect yourself and others.
"The best prevention is vaccination, no questions," the doctor added. "Hands down, it's vaccinations."
