Officials with the Whatcom County Health Department and the Washington State Department of Health are reporting earlier than normal significant increases in cases of influenza, commonly referred to simply as the flu. A significant increase in the number of recent Influenza B positive cases is being blamed for the spike at both the state and county level.
While there have been 5 lab-confirmed influenza deaths and 8 influenza-like illness outbreaks in long-term care facilities in Washington state as of December 7th, there have been none reported in Whatcom County as of December 14th.
Whatcom County Health Department offers the following advice for avoiding the flu.
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Click for more informationThe single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.
• Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.• Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.AdvertisementClick for more information
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• Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.• Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.• Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.Source: http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us/967/Influenza