Douglas Co. Health Dept. release – While winter may be winding down, influenza (flu) season is still in full swing for much of Oregon; and Douglas County is no exception. Recent reports indicate a potent late flu season with widespread flu activity. Mercy Medical Center has reported a higher than average number of positive flu tests over the past few weeks, and Douglas Pubic Health Network (DPHN) is also aware of a number of cases of influenza in area nursing homes. Additionally, several schools are reporting elevated levels of student absence. DPHN has been in contact with both nursing home and school personnel, and appropriate control measures are in place. Flu is a virus that causes mild to severe respiratory illness. In severe cases it can lead to hospitalization and even death. People at higher risk of severe illness include children, adults older than 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions or weak immune systems. Vaccinating is the best protection against the flu available. You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine; and while it may not provide 100% protection, it can still lessen the severity of illness. The CDC recommends vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. In addition, DPHN also strongly encourages health care workers to get vaccinated as immunized health care workers help prevent the spread of influenza in health care settings, particularly among hospitalized patients at high risk for flu-related complications. The strains of influenza currently circulating are primarily type A and appear to be well matched with this year’s vaccine, which is pretty effective and still readily available from many health care providers and pharmacies and covered for free by most insurances. Those without insurance can get the vaccine for just $19.99 at Costco Pharmacy. To further prevent the spread of the virus, DPHN recommends that those sick with the flu-like illness stay home and limit contact with others. Other ways people can prevent illness are: • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue out when you are done. • Wash hands with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them. • Avoid getting coughed and sneezed on. More information is available from the Oregon Health Authority at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/COMMUNICABLEDISEASE/DISEASESURVEILLANCEDATA/INFLUENZA/pages/index.aspx. School and nursing home personnel concerned about outbreaks at their facilities can contact DPHN Communicable Disease at 541-677-5814, or by fax at 541-464-3914.
