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Increase in flu cases filling up Buffalo General

WBFO News file photo

As the flu and similar illnesses spread across the nation, local hospitals are experiencing an additional influx of patients.

Buffalo General Medical Center is running at near 100-percent capacity, according to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Colin McMahon. He said the most troubling cases are those in patients with pre-existing conditions.
 

"Patients who have chronic medical problems – diabetes, lung problems like COPD, heart conditions – they’re getting the flu or flu-like illnesses and that’s just tipping them over the edge on their underlying disorder. So we’re seeing a lot of respiratory problems, a lot of dehydration,” said McMahon.

McMahon said there’s still time to get a flu shot and that it will help not only against the current outbreak, but against the subsequent outbreak normally expected in the spring-time. He said people experiencing flu-like symptoms should consult their physician or an urgent care center to test for the flu. And, as always, the best prevention is hand-washing and using hand sanitizers.

Avery began his broadcasting career as a disc jockey for WRUB, the University at Buffalo’s student-run radio station.
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