The flu is a serious illness that can result in hospitalization and death. The flu is a
respiratory infection that may present with some or all of the following symptoms: fever
(not everyone with the flu will have a fever), feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat,
runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, tiredness. Some people have
vomiting and diarrhea, however this is more common in children and not usually seen in
adults.
This flu season, in the state of Oregon 187 people have been hospitalized. 26 flu
outbreaks occurred throughout the state affecting long-term care facilities and schools.
Nationally, 27 children have died from the flu. In Lincoln County, since mid-December, there has been a drastic increase of people testing positive for the flu; particularly with influenza B.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and
older should get vaccinated against the flu.
Children and elderly people are especially vulnerable to experience complications from the flu infection. When vaccinated against the flu it has shown to be lifesaving for children, reduce hospitalizations, can make illness less severe among people who get vaccinated but still get sick with the flu. Getting vaccinated against the flu helps prevent spreading the flu to family, friends and classmates. The more people that are vaccinated against the flu will also help prevent outbreaks of the flu in our community.
The Quadrivalent flu vaccine provides immunity totwo strands of A and two strands of B, influenza. Primary Care Providers, Pharmacies (vaccinate people 7 years and older) and Lincoln County Health Department provide flu vaccines. We recommend calling the above listed organizations in advance to ensure the stock of the flu vaccine is available. Handwashing and covering your cough also helps to stop the spread of germs. You may contact the Health Department with questions at 541-265-4112 ex.#1
Information and photo from LCHHS