The flu season is not over yet for Douglas County



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DOUGLAS COUNTY, Oregon. While the winter is over, the influenza season is in full swing in most of Oregon and Douglas County is no exception.

Recent reports indicate a late potent influenza season with widespread influenza activity. Mercy Medical Center has reported a number of positive tests for the flu above average in recent weeks, and the Douglas Public Health Network (DPHN) is also aware of a number of influenza cases in retirement homes. In addition, many schools report high levels of student absence.

DPHN has been in contact with the staff of the retirement home and school staff, and appropriate control measures are in place, they say.

Influenza is a virus that causes mild to severe respiratory illness. In severe cases, this can lead to hospitalization and even death. Those most at risk of serious illness are children, adults over 65, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems.

According to DPHN, vaccination is the best protection against the flu available. "The influenza vaccine does not get the flu, and even if it does not provide 100% protection, it can still reduce the severity of the disease."

The CDC recommends vaccination for all people 6 months of age and older. In addition, the DPHN also strongly encourages health workers to be vaccinated, as they help prevent the spread of influenza in health facilities, particularly for hospitalized patients at high risk for complications related to influenza. influenza.

Influenza strains currently circulating are mainly type A and seem well matched to this year's vaccine, quite effective and always available from many health care providers and pharmacies and covered for free by most insurers. Uninsured people can get the vaccine for $ 19.99 at the Costco pharmacy.

To further prevent the spread of the virus, the DPHN recommends that people with ILI stay in their homes and limit contact with others. Other ways to prevent the disease are:

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Discard the tissue when you are done.

* Wash your hands with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

* Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may contain flu.

* Avoid coughing and sneezing.

More information is available from the Oregon Health Authority at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/COMMU.

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