Flu Cases Rise, Overdose Crisis Deepens, & Multi-State Recalls Impact TN

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Flu activity is climbing across Rutherford County and the Nashville region, with Tennessee ranking among the highest flu activity states nationwide. Neighboring Coffee County schools have closed due to low attendance from a mix of flu, COVID, and strep cases. Tennessee also ranks fifth in the nation for overdose deaths among adults ages 35 to 44. Meanwhile, a Rutherford County man has been indicted on charges of aggravated rape of a child and sexual exploitation of a minor, and police have arrested two suspected diesel fuel thieves wanted in multiple states. Additionally, food recalls have impacted Tennessee, with an apple pear banana puree recall and a salmonella outbreak tied to moringa powder capsules.

Why it matters

The rise in flu cases, overdose crisis, and food recalls highlight ongoing public health challenges facing Tennessee communities. The school closures and criminal cases also demonstrate the broader societal impacts of these issues. Understanding the scope and contributing factors can help inform public health strategies and community responses.

The details

Flu activity has climbed to a moderate level in the Nashville-Murfreesboro-Franklin region, with 5.2% of the population reporting influenza-like illness. Tennessee ranks among the highest flu activity states nationwide. Neighboring Coffee County schools have closed after attendance dropped below 90% due to a mix of flu, COVID, and strep cases. Tennessee also ranks fifth in the nation for overdose deaths among adults ages 35 to 44, with experts citing financial strain, chronic stress, caregiving pressures, and the presence of fentanyl as contributing factors. In Rutherford County, a 24-year-old man has been indicted on charges of aggravated rape of a child and multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Police have also arrested two suspected diesel fuel thieves wanted in multiple states. Additionally, a fruit puree recall and a salmonella outbreak tied to moringa powder capsules have impacted Tennessee.

• Flu activity has climbed across Rutherford County in recent weeks.
• Coffee County schools closed on February 13, 2026 due to low attendance.
• Tennessee ranks fifth in the nation for overdose deaths among adults ages 35 to 44.
• The Rutherford County indictment was handed down in February 2026.
• The diesel fuel theft arrests occurred in recent days.

What’s next

The judge in Jacob Taylor's case will decide on his bond on February 21, 2026.