There has been an increase in the number of cases of patients with influenza-like illness reported from Emergency Rooms and Physicians’ offices over the past week. Three new cases of Influenza were confirmed today. Symptoms of influenza include headache, fever, muscle aches and pains, and cough.
“Those who think they may have the influenza virus should get some rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for the fever and pain,“ says Dr. Heather Morrison, Chief Health Officer. “If you get sick, stay home to reduce the chances of spreading your illness to co-workers, classmates or others. Wait until you no longer have a fever and your cough is improving. However, if your influenza-like symptoms are getting worse you should seek medical attention.”
It is important for those who are ill to avoid contact with seniors, children and people with chronic disease such as asthma, diabetes, heart or kidney disease. Influenza worsens these medical conditions.
The influenza virus spreads rapidly from person to person usually by coughing or sneezing. The virus can survive up to 48 hours on surfaces, therefore hand-washing is important. Frequent hand-washing with warm water and soap helps to remove the virus, especially after coughing and sneezing and touching surfaces that may have been contaminated by other people.
Immunization to prevent influenza is available annually during the fall months and over 41,000 doses of vaccine were distributed for use in physician offices and clinics during the fall of 2007.