Officials give flu season warnings, advice

The Herald-Dispatch - 1/8/2018

HUNTINGTON - The Tri-State is experiencing an intense flu outbreak, and health officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent the virus from spreading.

In 2018, an aggressive flu virus (H3N2) is more prevalent. This flu virus tends to cause more intense illness and a higher risk of complications and fatalities.

Those at greatest risk include young children, seniors over age 65, pregnant women, individuals with other illnesses or medical issues and individuals with compromised immune systems.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has listed West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky as having widespread flu activity, along with high rates of hospital visits with flu-like symptoms.

According to the CDC's Pneumonia and Influenza Mortality Surveillance from the National Center for Health Statistics Mortality Surveillance System, 293 West Virginians have died from either pneumonia or flu from October to Dec. 17, compared to 326 people during the same time in 2016.

However, the Cabell-Huntington Health Department has not had any reports of flu death in the county, although nursing director Kathleen Napier said flu activity is increasing. She encouraged anyone who did not get a flu shot to get one.

Logan Regional Medical Center is launching an awareness campaign to ensure that individuals are aware of the symptoms, risks and what they can do for treatment.

"The medical professionals at Logan Regional Medical Center are here to help you with all your healthcare needs," said Beth Baldwin, Marketing/PRI Coordinator at Logan Regional Medical Center. "Preventing the spread of the flu and providing treatment to those who do get sick is a major priority. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can help you or your loved ones this flu season."

Staff at the hospital have released an information sheet to inform the public about the flu. Here are a few tips from that list:

Flu symptoms

Flu symptoms typically include:

>> Fever, though not everyone with the flu runs a fever

>> Chills

>> Sore throat

>> Runny nose

>> Coughing and/or sneezing

>> Body aches and pains

>> Fatigue

>> Diarrhea (some cases)

>> Vomiting (some cases)

If you become ill

Mild cases of the flu may not require medical attention. If you are not in a high-risk group and you develop a mild case of the flu:

>> Stay home to avoid spreading the virus.

>> Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids.

>> Take your temperature regularly.

>> Do not return to routine activities until you are well.

>> If your symptoms continue to worsen and/or you experience a consistently high temperature, contact your physician and arrange for timely medical care.

What are the emergency signs of the flu?

Severe cases of the flu can be life threatening. Since severe cases may require immediate care at the Emergency Room, it is important to know the emergency signs of the flu.

Emergency signs in children:

>> Fast breathing or trouble breathing

>> Bluish skin color

>> Not drinking enough fluids

>> Not waking up or interacting with others

>> Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held

>> Flu-like symptoms improve, then return with fever and worse cough

>> Fever with a rash

In addition to the signs for children listed above, get medical help right away for any infant who has these signs:

>> Being unable to eat

>> Has trouble breathing

>> Has no tears when crying

>> Has significantly fewer wet diapers than normal

Emergency signs in adults:

>> Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

>> Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

>> Sudden dizziness

>> Confusion

>> Severe or persistent vomiting

>> Flu-like symptoms improve, then return with fever and worse cough

Medicines to treat the flu

While there is currently no cure for the flu, there are drugs that your doctor may prescribe to make you better faster. These drugs, called "antivirals," may also prevent serious complications and are best taken within 48 hours of first symptoms.

How to tell you are well

If you come down with the flu, stay home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or necessities. Until your fever is gone for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines such as Tylenol, avoid work, school, travel, dining out, shopping, travel, social events and public gatherings.

This rule applies to any individuals in your household who have the flu. If you must go out, wearing a facemask is a good idea. And be sure to carry tissues and wash your hands often.