01/03/2026
DeKalb County is alerting residents to a significant increase in flu-related emergency calls, based on data and observations from the County’s emergency medical services partner, American Medical Response (AMR). According to AMR, flu-related 911 calls in DeKalb County have increased by approximately 60% over the past several weeks, reflecting a broader statewide and national trend.
AMR advises residents to call 911 or seek emergency medical attention if they experience:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain or persistent pressure
• Sudden dizziness, confusion, or severe weakness
• Severe or prolonged vomiting
• Flu symptoms that improve but then return with a high fever or worsening cough
For DeKalb County residents who call 911 with less severe symptoms, AMR notes that dispatchers may connect eligible callers to the 911 Nurse Navigation service, which allows a licensed nurse to help guide patients to appropriate care options such as a virtual doctor visit or an urgent care referral.
Based on guidance from AMR and public health officials, DeKalb County encourages residents to:
• Get vaccinated. Annual flu vaccines remain the most effective way to prevent severe illness. Residents at higher risk should also ask their healthcare provider about the pneumococcal vaccine.
• Practice good hygiene. Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or your elbow to reduce the spread of airborne viruses.
• Stay home when sick. Avoid exposing others by remaining home until symptoms improve.
AMR encourages residents to check on those who may be most vulnerable.
To Learn more visit https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:f0f9302c-130b-4ff8-8c39-3471f5ad0fbd
