http://www.columbiatribune.com/news/2009/sep/04/state-sees-rise-flu-illness/
State sees rise in flu-like illness
The Associated Press
Friday, September 4, 2009
Missouri hospitals are reporting a sharp rise in the number of patients with flu-like illnesses in the past week.
And a top health official says that although it?s too early to call the numbers a trend, it?s a reminder to take steps to help stop the flu from spreading.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said yesterday that flu-like cases accounted for nearly 4 percent of all illnesses handled by hospitals in recent days ? up from 2 percent on typical days.
Health department Director Margaret Donnelly said the figures indicate the spread of swine flu. She said the virus can be contained by frequent hand-washing and covering coughs and sneezes with a sleeve.
State sees rise in flu-like illness
The Associated Press
Friday, September 4, 2009
Missouri hospitals are reporting a sharp rise in the number of patients with flu-like illnesses in the past week.
And a top health official says that although it?s too early to call the numbers a trend, it?s a reminder to take steps to help stop the flu from spreading.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said yesterday that flu-like cases accounted for nearly 4 percent of all illnesses handled by hospitals in recent days ? up from 2 percent on typical days.
Health department Director Margaret Donnelly said the figures indicate the spread of swine flu. She said the virus can be contained by frequent hand-washing and covering coughs and sneezes with a sleeve.