As public attention turns to the coronavirus, or COVID-19, cases of influenza are dropping nationally and in Alabama. The drop in flu cases, though, is not likely tied to the preventative measures people are taking against COVID-19, say health experts.

Nationwide, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a three-week drop in flu cases, and in Alabama, the Department of Public Health (ADPH) reported a 28 percent drop for the week ending Feb. 28.

Dr. Mark Christensen, Cullman Regional Emergency Room director, said that while awareness of COVID-19 may encourage people take precautions that also limit the spread of the influenza virus, its unlikely the two are related. “Public interest in coronavirus really didn’t reach critical mass until this week, with people stockpiling groceries and cough/cold meds,” he said. “I think it’s more likely that flu cases started trending down irrespective of coronavirus concerns. However, there is no denying the fact that behaviors to reduce the spread of coronavirus also reduce the spread of other respiratory viruses such as the flu, like good hand hygiene, covering your mouth when you cough and staying away from others when you’re sick.”

Cullman Regional is averaging close to 200 flu tests per week. Over the past month, 38 tests came back positive for flu.

“Our flu numbers have stayed pretty consistent,” said Urgent Care Physician Ryan Pettit. “We’re still seeing quite a few cases every day.”

While doctors and health organizations are sharing information about how to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Pettit is concerned the message isn’t changing behavior. “I wish this [people using better habits to prevent the spread of germs] would be the case, but I’m afraid people will simply buy all the masks and hand-sanitizer but not necessarily change the daily hygiene methods that could potentially offer future protection against respiratory and contact illnesses,” he said.

Dr. Karen Landers of ADPH confirmed that the drop in flu cases is more likely tied to the natural progression of the flu season. However, “we’re always very happy when people take the necessary steps to reduce respiratory drop illnesses.”

The number of COVID-19 cases in the United States was at 225 on Friday, with 14 deaths reported. No cases have been reported in Alabama.

So far, there is not a large amount of public concern in Cullman around the new coronavirus. “Right now public interest in coronavirus is high, but people seem to understand it’s unlikely they could have the disease if they haven’t had contact with a person under investigation or recent travel to affected countries,” said Christensen. “How this will change when/if we start having community cases of coronavirus without travel remains unknown. Public awareness of any disease is critical to limit its spread. Early actions such as those taken by Cullman Regional and ADPH to prepare for disasters ensure that you and your family members will receive the best care if the disease hits your community.”

Doctors say the following precautions will help prevent the spread of influenza, COVID-19 and other illnesses:

Washing your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Avoiding anyone who is sick

If you are sick, avoiding others

Staying home if you are sick

Not touching your face with unwashed hands

Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve

Routinely cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces and objects

Get an annual flu shot

The CDC website, cdc.gov, also provides information on influenza and COVID-19, including symptoms, prevention and treatment.