Flu season has hit Rochester and has seemingly already reached its peak. About a month ago the number of flu cases at the University of Rochester Medical Center was 184 and has since steadily declined. According to 13 WHAM, only 153 flu cases were reported at the UR Medical Center last week.

Despite the low cases of the flu, UR Medicine still put visitor restrictions in place this month to stop the spread of the virus. Visitors younger than 14 years old will not be allowed in, there can be no more than two visitors for a patient at any time, and people with any symptoms are asked not to visit any hospitalized patients at all.

According to the Democrat and Chronicle, Dr. Paul Graman, epidemiologist and director of the Infectious Diseases Division at Strong, knows it’s difficult to determine flu trends.

“Viruses have a mind of their own,” Graman said. “I don’t think we understand why flu comes early or late.”

Each year, between 5 and 20% of people get the flu in the United States.

Dr. John Treanor, Chief of Infectious Disease, tries to determine the cause of these flu trends but knows that it’s more difficult than some people think. “Why do flu epidemics vary in intensity, and why do they go away? Why do they start and go away? What are all the factors?” Treanor asked.

“It involves the immunity and the population, some aspects of the weather and things that are circulating — and a lot of aspects that aren’t well understood,” Treanor continued.

Doctors stress that it’s important to practice flu prevention methods. Frequently washing hands; avoiding touching the mouth, nose, and eyes; and maintaining a safe distance away from sick people are all important.

Dr. Treanor also wants everyone to practice “respiratory etiquette” as well, which simply tells people with these illnesses to cover their mouths and noses when sneezing or coughing.