According to Public Health Officials in Pueblo County, the flu season has begun. Two local senior citizens have been hospitalized with influenza. Jody Carrillo, division director at the Pueblo City-County Health Department urges, “Now is a good time to get the flu vaccine as the vaccine takes about two weeks for protection to set in.” The flu vaccine is available in Pueblo. If your family has insurance, check with your physician or local pharmacy. The Health Department offers vaccinations to children and uninsured adults by appointment. Call the Health Department’s clinic at 719-543-4380.
Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly be tiny droplets made when infected people cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, the flu can be contracted by touching a surface or object on which the flu virus has landed and then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes.
How do you know if you have the flu? Symptoms start suddenly and may include the following:
· Fever (usually high)
· Headache
· Tiredness (can be extreme)
· Cough
· Sore throat
· Runny or stuffy nose
· Body aches
· Chills and fatigue
· Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
If you, or your family members, experience flu symptoms, it’s best to stay home until 24 hours after the fever is gone WITHOUT the help of fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Beyond the flu vaccine, take these 4 steps to prevent your family members from catching, or spreading, the flu or other pesky viruses that are running around this time of year.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your shirt sleeve.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, particularly before you eat. Ask your kids to recite the ABCs as they wash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially after being in public places and touching door handles.
- Sanitize your own home’s outside, inside and cabinet door handles regularly. Buy some bleach wipes and keep them handy for family members to use.
Carrillo adds “It is important for high-risk individuals with health problems, elderly, or babies under six months old, to avoid public events and crowds in order to decrease exposure to the influenza virus.
During the 2016-2017 flu season, 173 Pueblo individuals were hospitalized with influenza. Get a vaccine and follow the steps above to be sure that this year your family stays healthy and happy.
