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While fall brings a variety of pleasant changes – including cooler weather, colorful autumn foliage and much more – it also marks the beginning of the influenza season, which usually peaks between December and February, but can last up to 10 days. 'in May.
The influenza virus can cause serious to serious illness and, in some situations, death. People at higher risk of developing flu-related complications include children under 5 years of age, adults 65 years and older, pregnant women, women up to two weeks after the onset of the flu. childbirth, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, American Indians and Alaska Native people, and those with certain medical conditions such as asthma, heart and blood disorders.
At Raleigh General Hospital, our mission is to make communities healthier. To do this, we ensure that our neighbors have the information they need to stay healthy and fight against preventable diseases, such as the flu.
Since the flu season is upon us, we want to do everything in our power to prevent the spread of this often debilitating disease. The good news is that you can take a few simple steps to protect yourself, prevent the disease from spreading and accelerate the healing of the flu, in case you get sick.
The first and most important step is getting vaccinated. This is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu virus. Although it is still possible to contract the flu after receiving a vaccine, it is far less likely. And if you get sick, studies have shown that influenza vaccination can soften your disease.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual influenza vaccination for all people 6 months of age and older, with any age-appropriate influenza vaccine. If you are considering a nasal spray flu shot, it is important to know that this option is approved by the CDC for use in non-pregnant people, ages 2 to 49, and that there is a precaution against this. option for people suffering from certain underlying medical conditions. . Talk to your health care provider about the best flu vaccination method for you.
To get a flu shot, you can go to the public health unit, a walk-in clinic or pharmacy, or your provider's office. If you do not have a primary care provider, visit our website and browse our Find a Doctor section. If possible, plan to receive your influenza vaccine before influenza activity begins near you, as it takes approximately two weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective. A good rule is to get vaccinated before the end of October.
In addition to influenza vaccination, you can take other important steps to prevent the spread of infection and protect yourself, your family, and our community during the flu season and throughout the year. especially:
l Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds or with a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
l Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
l Avoid sharing food, cups or utensils
l Disinfect your home and belongings, such as doorknobs, switches, children's toys and play areas
l Stay home after school or work if you are sick to prevent the spread of germs
l Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze with a tissue, your sleeve or elbow, NOT your bare hands
l Call your local hospital or primary care provider for any questions
The Raleigh General Hospital also takes appropriate measures in our facility to prevent the spread of influenza by:
l Provide masks for all visitors and patients with flu-like symptoms
l Installation of stations in all facilities filled with tissue and alcohol-based hand sanitizers
l Encourage all patients, staff and visitors who have not yet done so to be vaccinated against influenza
l Provide educational materials to all visitors about daily preventive actions
If you or a loved one begins to notice symptoms such as cough, sore throat, fever, or respiratory symptoms, consult your health care provider immediately. Early detection is especially important for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and so on. When they are detected early, prescription antiviral medications can often help treat the disease and reduce the time to sickness one or two days.
In addition, limit contact with others as much as possible immediately after noting symptoms. Stay home (or keep your child at home) at least 24 hours after the fever starts, except to see a doctor.
During the flu season and year-round, Raleigh General Hospital is there to meet your health care needs. If you have any questions or concerns about this year's flu season, call 304-256-4100.
For more information on the 2018-2019 influenza season, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/flu-season-2018-2019.htm or contact the Public Health Department.
Deborah Vaughn, Chief Nurse,
Raleigh General Hospital
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