Health Department announces first confirmed flu case in county

MASON CITY — The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health has confirmed a positive case of influenza (flu) in our county. With this recent case, Disease Prevention and Investigation Specialists at the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health are recommending individuals still get a flu vaccine.

“We have a lab-confirmed case of influenza A identified in Cerro Gordo County. It’s not too late to protect yourself from the virus by getting vaccinated,” said Jeni Stiles, Disease Prevention Nurse, Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health. “The flu vaccine is your number one line of defense against influenza.”

Protecting yourself against influenza not only benefits your overall health; it also helps protect you from transmitting the virus to your loved ones. Now more than ever, it is imperative to receive your flu shot.

Symptoms of the flu include fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults. If you suspect you have the flu, stay home from work or school, get plenty of rest and water, and consult your physician.

Officials with the Health Department urge you to prevent the spread of the flu by practicing the following good health tips:

• Wash your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
• 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.
• 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 from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

The Health Department still has flu vaccine available. The Immunization Clinic is open Monday–Friday from 10:00 – Noon and 12:30 – 4:00 PM.  The Health Department accepts most major health insurances.