134 new influenza cases in South Dakota

State epidemiologist Lon Kightlinger says most flu cases in South Dakota are from the H3 virus that spreads quickly and comes with severe symptoms.

A “confirmed case” of influenza means one thing: that the flu sufferer requires hospitalization due to their symptoms. “We’ve seen some outbreaks in schools, in health care facilities and nursing homes”, Dannenhoffer said. The California Department of Public Health has confirmed a total of 14 reportable flu related deaths statewide as of January 14.

Sixteen people have now died of flu in the state since the season began last fall.

This year’s prevalent flu virus, he said, is the h3n2, which is a relatively new virus. This count represents a fraction of the total flu deaths statewide because only deaths in people younger than 65 are reported to the state and not all influenza-related deaths are easily attributable to influenza, according to CDPH officials. As elders, children, pregnant women, and chronically ill are most vulnerable to contracting the virus, health officials urge the population to improve their odds of survival by getting the flu shot.

Dr Kelleher told those attending the briefing at Dr Steevens’ Hospital that the number of those availing of the flu vaccine was higher than in previous years.

Fatalities are always underestimated, says Skowronski, because flu can trigger a spiral of failing health in elderly patients that results in death weeks later.

The restrictions, as has been the case for several flu seasons, ban children from visiting patients, and apply to lobbies and waiting areas.

Influenza is a serious disease and human beings aren’t the only ones who suffer – dogs are susceptible to their own strains of flu. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and a runny nose.

Also, mothers of newborns need a flu shot to help protect their infants, who can’t be vaccinated until they are 6 months old.