(6 Minute Read) Dover, Ohio – The majority of the United States is currently reporting High or Moderate influenza activity.
Tuscarawas County has seen a substantial increase in local flu activity in week 5 (January 26, 2020- February 1, 2020) compared to previous weeks. Both Nationally and Locally Influenza B viruses are the most reported influenza viruses.
The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) reported 14 influenza-associated pediatric deaths in week 4 (January 19, 2020- January 25, 2020). This brings the total influenza pediatric deaths to 68 Nationally for the 2019-2020 flu season. In Ohio, there have been 30 adult deaths associated with the flu and Nationally 1,530 this influenza season alone.
Locally, Tuscarawas County has only seen a few hospitalized influenza cases this season, however, there have been 3,642 influenza-associated hospitalizations in Ohio to date.
Symptoms of the Flu:
- Fever
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Cough
- sore throat
- nasal congestion
- body aches
Prevention:
The easiest way to protect yourself from the flu is to get a seasonal flu vaccine. You should avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Wash your hands! Cover your cough!
The flu virus can “live” on some surfaces for up to 48 hours. Routine cleaning of surfaces may reduce the spread of flu. Flu viruses are killed by heat above 167° F [75° C]. Common household cleaning products can also kill the flu virus, including products containing:
- chlorine
- hydrogen peroxide
- detergents (soap)
- iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics)
- alcohols
If You Are Sick:
If you’re sick, stay home! The majority of flu illnesses can be treated at home. However, if symptoms become more severe, you are pregnant or you have an underlying chronic medical condition, seek medical attention immediately.
During your illness, stay away from those who may become ill easily or who are at high risk for complications from flu; cover coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands often.
Drink clear fluids such as water, broth or sports drinks. There are also electrolyte beverages made for infants to prevent them from becoming dehydrated.
Get plenty of rest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying home for 24 hours after the fever is gone without using fever-reducing medication.
For questions please contact the Tuscarawas County Health Department at (330) 343-5555 x164.
