Flu cases spiking in Georgia

“The peak is really right now in January, and we sometimes see this re-emerge in February and even as late as March”, said Randall Williams, the North Carolina state health director.

Since September, three people have died and 152 people have been hospitalized because of the flu. Wipes or sprays containing bleach are excellent for killing most of the germs that can cause illness at this time of year.

“Seeing an increase in flu cases in January is not uncommon in MI and is a good reminder about the importance of getting vaccinated”, said Dr. Eden Wells, chief medical executive with the MDHHS.

According to Florida Health, it is also essential to practice good hygiene by properly and frequently washing your hands to help prevent the spread of seasonal flu.

Donald Skillman, an infectious disease specialist at St. Peter’s, says the best way to prevent influenza is to get the vaccine.

“You certainly can’t get the flu from the flu shot”, she said. “You want to consider if you are going to deliver during influenza season, you being protected as well as that baby who can’t be vaccinated until six months”.

In an average year, about 30 per cent of people living in Ontario get a flu shot, Warshawsky said.

“We would all like to have a better vaccine, but vaccine is still the best way to protect yourself against flu”, Brammer added. When these indicators rise and remain elevated for a number of consecutive weeks, flu season is said to have begun.

Flu vaccinations are available at local doctor offices, clinics, and pharmacies.

Most years, the vaccine is between 40 percent and 60 percent effective, according to the CDC. Antiviral medications taken within a day or two after the flu symptoms start might help people at higher risk avoid complications, including pneumonia, hospitalization, and death.

The symptoms of flu, which tend to come on suddenly, can include a sore throat, coughing, fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.

“Wash your hands with soap and water”, James said.

When should I see a doctor?

Coughing up mucus tinged with blood. “With the norovirus, we say 24 hours of no diarrhea”.

There is a “high dose vaccine” designed specifically for select people 65 and older.

This is especially important for at risk groups such as the elderly, those with chronic conditions, and pregnant women.

Fast breathing or trouble breathing.

Unable to talk in full sentences.