buzzz worthy. . .
By Mona Austin
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has declared a flu epidemic over the entire United States as the illness infiltrates most of the country. Within the past week, the number of states reporting a high amount of “influenza-like” illnesses has increased from 43 to 46 with a rise in deaths due to the virus.
Flu season started early in December of 2014 and may last through May of this year, some health officials estimate. The window of flu season is typically 13 weeks.
As of last Monday, the CDC identified Tennessee as one of the areas of widespread outbreak. "Six Tennessee children have died from the flu this year," reports the state’s Department of Health. Other states reporting flu-related deaths include Minnesota and South Carolina.
This season H3N2, the most common string of the virus, has been more aggressive, weakening the effectiveness of the vaccine. The elderly and young are showing the most vulnerability to the illness. However, the CDC recommends vaccination for those age 6 months and above for some level of protection and to possibly reduce severe outcomes such as hospitalization and death.
The CDC advises the public to know the symptoms and seek medical attention if multiple symptoms persist.
INFLUENZA SYMPTOMS
*NOTE: Not everyone with flu will have a fever.
PREVENTION
The CDC says the best way to prevent the spread of the flu is to avoid ill people and germs. Washing hands thoroughly and regularly is also recommended. Those infected with the virus are advise to stay at home from work an school.
By Mona Austin
Flu season started early in December of 2014 and may last through May of this year, some health officials estimate. The window of flu season is typically 13 weeks.
As of last Monday, the CDC identified Tennessee as one of the areas of widespread outbreak. "Six Tennessee children have died from the flu this year," reports the state’s Department of Health. Other states reporting flu-related deaths include Minnesota and South Carolina.
This season H3N2, the most common string of the virus, has been more aggressive, weakening the effectiveness of the vaccine. The elderly and young are showing the most vulnerability to the illness. However, the CDC recommends vaccination for those age 6 months and above for some level of protection and to possibly reduce severe outcomes such as hospitalization and death.
The CDC advises the public to know the symptoms and seek medical attention if multiple symptoms persist.
INFLUENZA SYMPTOMS
- Fever*
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Sometimes diarrhea and vomiting
*NOTE: Not everyone with flu will have a fever.
PREVENTION
The CDC says the best way to prevent the spread of the flu is to avoid ill people and germs. Washing hands thoroughly and regularly is also recommended. Those infected with the virus are advise to stay at home from work an school.