Greenville, Ohio – In the past six weeks, Darke County has seen a drastic increase in Influenza, primarily Influenza A cases. In December, there were 14 flu-associated hospitalizations and in the first week of January, there have already been 12 hospitalizations. These numbers are expected to continue to rise over the next couple of months.
The flu is different than the common cold. Symptoms of the flu include: fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Children can also have vomiting and diarrhea. Most people recover from the flu; however, it can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure. Pregnant women, young children, people over 65, and those with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease are considered high risk for the flu.
Emergency warning signs of the flu in children include: difficulty breathing, bluish skin color, not drinking enough fluids, difficulty waking up, irritability, and fever with a rash. In adults, more serious symptoms include: chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and confusion. Emergency symptoms in infants are being unable to eat, trouble breathing, no tears when crying, and significantly less wet diapers than normal. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.
There are many ways to prevent getting, or spreading, the flu. If you are already ill, it is important to avoid contact with people for 24 hours after the fever subsides, cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, wash your hands frequently, and take antiviral drugs if prescribed by your doctor. In order to protect yourself from the flu, the most effective way is to get immunized. Other ways to prevent contracting the flu are: avoid close contact with sick people, wash your hands frequently, disinfect surfaces at home, get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, and eat a nutritious diet.
It is not too late to get your flu shot. The Darke County Health Department is offering flu shots on a walk-in basis, Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Immunizations are also offered at many doctor’s offices and pharmacies.
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