Health officials thought we’d be seeing fewer flu cases by now, but it’s actually gotten worse in Louisiana. Dr. Frank Welch with the state department of health says we’re seeing almost double the number of cases as our neighboring states…:
CUT 12 (10) “like-illness”
He says Louisiana is leading the nation in the number of flu cases this year.

It’s likely not to get better anytime soon as flu spreads easier when we’re indoors, and State Climatologist Barry Keim says if you think it’s cold now, just wait for New Years Eve…:
Cut 10 (10) “next few days”
He says on Monday, New Years Day and into Tuesday, the state is expected to see the coldest temperatures so far this season.

The US Department of Ag will begin testing a new method for controlling the rampant feral hog population. Texas and Alabama were chosen for a pilot program involving a new poison bait that officials hope will target the swine, without damaging local ecosystems. Louisiana Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says the Sodium Nitrite targets red blood cells to incapacitate the pigs…:
Cut 3 (06) “ninety minutes”
Testing is set to begin early 2018.

State Police is investigating a deputy-involved shooting in Ouachita Parish. They say preliminary findings suggest an officer was stopping to assist a stalled vehicle, when at some point shots were fired and the suspect struck. They suffered non-life threatening injuries and the investigation is ongoing.