(Mason City) — The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health has seen a significant increase of residents reporting influenza-like illness symptoms over the past week.
“We have procedures in place to monitor the amount of influenza-like illness activity being reported in the area. The rates have doubled over this past week,” states Karen Crimmings, Disease Prevention and Investigation Service Manager for the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health. “It’s important that people stay home if they are sick, unless they are seeking medical care, to help decrease the spread of illness within the community.”
Symptoms of the influenza (flu) include fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Department remind individuals to “Take 3” actions to fight the flu.
1. Take time to get a flu vaccine.
• The CDC recommends everyone receive a flu vaccine starting at six months of age and older.
• Individuals at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease and individuals 65 years and older.
2. Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
• Try to avoid contact with individuals who are sick.
3. Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.
• If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can treat your illness.
• Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines and are not available over-the-counter.
The Health Department has flu vaccine including the shot and mist still available. Our Immunization Clinic is open Monday-Friday from 10:00 – Noon and 12:30 – 4:00 PM. The Health Department accepts most major health insurances.
For more information about flu, flu prevention or the flu vaccine, please call 641-421-9321 or visit our website at www.cghealth.com.