As fall approaches, doctors across the Lowcountry are urging families to prepare for what could be a challenging flu and COVID season. Local clinics and hospitals say they are already seeing an uptick in patients testing positive, with cases emerging earlier than usual this year.
COVID Cases on the Rise in South Carolina
Traditionally, a spike in respiratory illnesses happens in September and October when schools are in full session. But this year, the trend began earlier.
“This year is probably earlier. Usually, you tend to see more cases in September or October … but this year, late summer is when we saw a huge spike,” explained Dr. Jeffrey Yonce, a family medicine physician at Roper St. Francis. He added that summer travel may have contributed to the rise.
The CDC confirmed that COVID cases across South Carolina climbed in August. While numbers dipped slightly in early September, health officials anticipate another surge between December and February, when flu and COVID typically peak together.
Tips to Stay Safe This Season
Doctors recommend simple but effective steps to reduce the spread of flu and COVID:
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
Stay home when feeling sick to protect others.
Wear a mask if you’re coughing or experiencing symptoms.
Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
“Soap and water is by far the best,” said Dr. Ibrahim Isa, an emergency medicine physician at Trident Medical Center. “If you’re sick, just be mindful — don’t be in people’s faces, wash your hands, and try to protect those around you.”
Catch COVID Early
Doctors stress the importance of early detection. Symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches should prompt immediate testing.
“The earlier the detection, the better,” Dr. Yonce explained. “It helps guide treatment and lowers your chances of spreading the virus. If you don’t find out until day five or six, you’ve already had a much higher chance of passing it to friends or family.”
Vaccines and Coverage
This year, the federal government is no longer covering flu or COVID vaccines, but most local pharmacies and clinics will accept insurance plans. For uninsured patients, out-of-pocket costs may apply, so health officials recommend checking with providers ahead of time.
With schools back in session and colder months ahead, Lowcountry residents are being reminded to take precautions now. Simple actions like washing hands, masking when sick, and getting vaccinated can go a long way in reducing illness and keeping families safe. As doctors warn, the earlier people act, the better prepared the community will be when flu and COVID season reaches its peak.
