Flu Season Is Here
10/5/2017
Flu Season Arrives Early in Some Cities
Physicians urge those at risk to get flu shots ASAP
Since September 1st, both the University of Southern Mississippi and the University of Arizona have seen a significant outbreak of the flu on their campuses. This is nearly a month before the first cases typically show up in the U.S., and follows an early and aggressive flu season experienced in Australia this year. Public health officials have confirmed that these campus outbreaks are not strains left over from last season, but are this year’s variety.
Some are concerned that this year’s flu season will arrive early and be somewhat severe. Those at increased risk from flu complications include adults aged 50 and older, children ages 6 months through 59 months, those with asthma or compromised immune systems, and women who are or will be pregnant during the flu season. People in any of these risk groups should consider getting a flu shot as soon as possible.
The flu is different from a cold, typically coming on suddenly.
- Fever* or feeling feverish/chills (*not everyone with flu will have a fever)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
(SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
The best way to protect yourself and others from getting or spreading the flu is by getting the flu vaccine. The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine. The flu is one of the most infectious diseases in the world. Five to 20 percent of Americans are affected by the virus each year and more than 200,000 are hospitalized. According to the CDC, the range of flu-associated deaths in a year ranges from 3,000 to 49,000.
People can spread the flu even before they feel sick. Adults are contagious one day before getting symptoms and up to five days after getting sick. Children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable to catching and experiencing complications from the flu.
In addition to the flu vaccine, these good health habits can help prevent the flu: avoid close contact with people who have the flu or symptoms, stay home when you are sick, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and resist touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
For more information on the flu and how you can get a flu vaccination at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center, contact us or click here to find a primary care doctor.
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