It was about this time last year when seasonal influenza, aka “the flu,” was at epidemic levels across the state. Flu activity is currently low but increasing in Washington State and the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is making people aware.
DOH issued an advisory today to educate people on how to avoid spreading the flu, to know when it’s okay to be cared for at home and when they should get medical care.
The DOH reports 9 lab-confirmed influenza deaths and 10 influenza-like illness outbreaks in long-term care facilities so far during the 2017-2018 season (began October 1st). 2 of those deaths occurred in Whatcom County.
“People who are sick should stay home from holiday gatherings where influenza and other illness can spread. If you have symptoms of the flu it’s better to miss some of the holiday fun than to risk infecting others – especially those people who are at higher risk of serious complications,” says Dr. Scott Lindquist state epidemiologist for infectious diseases.
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Click for more informationInfluenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms of flu include fever, chills, body aches and a cough or sore throat. It can cause severe illness in some people and can sometimes lead to death. Last flu season, 278 people in Washington were confirmed to have died from influenza.
Flu can be especially dangerous for pregnant women, young children, people age 65 and older, and those who have underlying health conditions such as asthma and other chronic diseases. These people should contact their doctor’s office if they get flu-like symptoms.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says you may have the flu if you have some or all of these symptoms:
- fever*
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- body aches
- headache
- chills
- fatigue
- sometimes diarrhea and vomiting
*It’s important to note not everyone with flu will have a fever.
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Click here to learn the signs for when emergency treatment is needed (link to Center for Disease Control).
DOH advises flu shots are the best way to prevent the flu and everyone six months of age and up is recommended to get a flu shot. People in close contact with high-risk groups should get a flu shot to protect themselves and the people in their care.
According to the Washington State Department of Health, a flu vaccination is the best method of prevention, followed by
- covering your cough
- proper hand washing
- staying home from school or work while sick
The flu shot does take up to 2 weeks to provide full protection and flu shots are currently available at pharmacies and clinic locations.