Take Steps to Prevent, Control, and Treat the Flu

Commissioner of Health, Indu Gupta, MD reported today that the Onondaga County Health Department has been notified about several flu-related hospitalizations and one lab-confirmed flu death. Additionally, there have also been reports of flu outbreaks in both assisted living homes and group homes. Dr. Gupta reassured, “We are working closely with the New York State Department of Health to actively monitor flu outbreaks and we have recommended more intensified efforts to control the flu”. Onondaga County residents should follow flu prevention, control, and early treatment steps.

This year’s flu season may be severe because the primary virus is flu A H3N2.  This flu strain often affects the very young, those over 65 years old, and those with underlying medical conditions. Those visiting assisted living locations should be sure to be immunized against the flu and to also practice hand and respiratory hygiene.  Follow the prevention, control, and early treatment steps to help stay healthy this flu season:

Flu prevention tips:

  • Get a flu vaccine.
  • Avoid close contact with sick people.

Control the spread of flu tips:

  • Stay home if you are sick.
  • Limit contact with others when you are sick.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water.

Early and prompt treatment of flu tips:

  • Contact your health care provider IMMEDIATELY for early and prompt treatment of the flu.
  • Take antiviral medicine within two days of getting sick. Starting them later can still be helpful.
  • Antiviral medicine can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick.
  • Antiviral medicine may also prevent serious flu complications.

For more information about controlling the spread of flu visit:  /health/  or http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm.