http://www.osceolaiowa.com/articles/2008/03/27/news/local_news/10news.txt
Influenza activity levels remain high
The Iowa Department of Public Health said influenza activity in Iowa remains at a peak level for the sixth consecutive week. In addition, reports of influenza outbreaks among the elderly have risen steadily over the past three weeks. Reports of influenza-illness related school absences have also increased. The persistence of the outbreak is prompting state officials to renew their call for Iowans to get their flu shot.
“IDPH is receiving reports of families being hit more than once by the flu bug this year,” said IDPH epidemiologist Meghan Harris. “One strain goes through the family and then they get hit with a different strain.” This year’s influenza vaccine provides 40 percent protection against the most common influenza strain being reported. “We’ve got to get the message out that people need to be vaccinated,” said Harris. “This year’s vaccine isn’t perfect, but it does provide some protection. Considering the severity of this flu season, that’s much better than nothing.”
More than 220 people have been admitted to the hospital with influenza this season. That compares to 84 last season. One hundred and seventy four of this year’s hospitalizations occurred in the last six weeks. In addition, there have been three pediatric influenza-associated fatalities. Medical clinics report patients with influenza-like illnesses have hit the highest rate in five years.
It’s not too late to get a flu shot. Vaccination now can still provide protection for the remainder of the flu season, which can last as late as May. In addition, simple steps like frequent hand washing and not coughing or sneezing on people can help prevent the spread of influenza. Most importantly, if you or your child is ill, stay home from work or school.
The most common symptoms of influenza are fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Vomiting, diarrhea or a stomach ache are not symptoms of influenza. Most people recover from influenza within a week, but the virus can cause complications such as pneumonia in the very young, the elderly or those with chronic diseases.
Influenza activity levels remain high
The Iowa Department of Public Health said influenza activity in Iowa remains at a peak level for the sixth consecutive week. In addition, reports of influenza outbreaks among the elderly have risen steadily over the past three weeks. Reports of influenza-illness related school absences have also increased. The persistence of the outbreak is prompting state officials to renew their call for Iowans to get their flu shot.
“IDPH is receiving reports of families being hit more than once by the flu bug this year,” said IDPH epidemiologist Meghan Harris. “One strain goes through the family and then they get hit with a different strain.” This year’s influenza vaccine provides 40 percent protection against the most common influenza strain being reported. “We’ve got to get the message out that people need to be vaccinated,” said Harris. “This year’s vaccine isn’t perfect, but it does provide some protection. Considering the severity of this flu season, that’s much better than nothing.”
More than 220 people have been admitted to the hospital with influenza this season. That compares to 84 last season. One hundred and seventy four of this year’s hospitalizations occurred in the last six weeks. In addition, there have been three pediatric influenza-associated fatalities. Medical clinics report patients with influenza-like illnesses have hit the highest rate in five years.
It’s not too late to get a flu shot. Vaccination now can still provide protection for the remainder of the flu season, which can last as late as May. In addition, simple steps like frequent hand washing and not coughing or sneezing on people can help prevent the spread of influenza. Most importantly, if you or your child is ill, stay home from work or school.
The most common symptoms of influenza are fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Vomiting, diarrhea or a stomach ache are not symptoms of influenza. Most people recover from influenza within a week, but the virus can cause complications such as pneumonia in the very young, the elderly or those with chronic diseases.