As the holiday season is in full swing, it brings more than presents under the tree but also an uptick in sickly cases. 

During the period of colder months, typically from November until March, flu and RSV cases pick up being accompanied by a new sub-variant of COVID-19 this year called JN.1. 

The national uptick has found its way to northeast Nebraska, but hasn't hit peak cases like previous years. 

"Given the temperature and how that weather's acted for now it's not as impressive as most years, but yeah we have seen some upticks in patients coming in with flu like symptoms in our offices,” said Owner and Provider of Nebraska Health and Wellness Clinic Jose Nuño. 

Those suffering the sickly symptoms are urged to explore all remedy options, such antibiotics or vitamin therapy upon early detection. 

This is important as symptoms whether viral, bacterial, or allergic can be similar in the beginning but upon persistence, patients should seek care.  

"Especially, you know, a fever that's reluctant and not going down with measures, a runny nose, sore throat with fever and especially anything pulmonary, cough with production, if you feel chest tightness, feeling like you can't get good oxygenation,” Nuño said. “I would definitely advise you to be seen by a primary care provider." 

To stay safe during this season, people should take precautions to support their immune systems prior to feeling sick. 

Also practice safe distancing when in enclosed spaces.