This year’s Influenza virus, more commonly known as the “flu,” has been reported to be more deadly than last year. State health officials report that 27 people younger than 65 have died of the flu in California since October, compared to three the same time last year. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the most effective and preventative action residents should take is to get vaccinated with the flu shot. The CDC recommends everyone aged 6 months and older receive the flu vaccination every year. Getting the flu vaccine helps prevent spreading the flu in your home, school, work and community.
Vaccinations are available at your primary doctor’s office or any local pharmacy. Visit https://vaccinefinder.org/ to find a location near you.
People who have the flu may be contagious before they even feel sick. To prevent spreading the flu, make sure to:
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, or use alcohol based hand sanitizers.
If you feel sick with flu-like symptoms, stay at home and limit contact with others.
Wait at home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone to go back to work/school.
Cover your cough or sneeze with your sleeve or a tissue and throw that tissue away into a trashcan.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Remember, if you are sick with a fever, it is recommended to wait until your fever is gone before getting a flu shot. However, per the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, you can get a flu shot if you have a respiratory illness without a fever, or if you have another mild illness.
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness whose symptoms usually come on suddenly and strong. They include:
headaches
fevers
chills
coughs
sore throats
extreme tiredness
runny/stuffy noses
and muscle or body aches
The LA County Public Health Department has provided a fact sheet for your most asked Influenza questions. Click here for more information.
