Health News For South West
Friday, October 26, 2012
Huron County Health Unit
Influenza in Huron County
Huron County Health Unit has received the first laboratory confirmed case of Influenza A for the 2012/2013 season.
Huron County residents are encouraged to get their flu shot either through a publicly funded clinic in the area or through their health care provider.
Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. It causes a sudden fever, sore throat, chills, dry cough, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Most people who get the flu are sick for two to seven days, but can feel tired and weak for up to two weeks. In some cases, the cough can last for weeks, too.
In seniors and people with chronic health problems (like lung or heart disease or diabetes), influenza can lead to complications such as pneumonia. The flu spreads very easily from person to person in tiny droplets from the nose and throat.
Public Health Nurse RuthAnn Ogilvie says to reduce the risk of spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses people should:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and hot water or, if soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;
- Sneeze or cough into a sleeve or arm;
- Stay home if sick; and,
- Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces such as keyboards, doorknobs, countertops etc.
For more information and for a list of flu shot clinics in Huron County check out the Huron County Health Unit website at www.huroncounty.ca/health/flu/clinics.
Media Contact:
Sharon Brown
Huron County Health Unit
519-482-3416 or toll-free 1-877-837-6143 ext 2224
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