Four Corners Health Department News Release

For Immediate Release, October 13, 2011

Contact:  Vicki L. Duey, Four Corners Health Department, (402) 362-2621 or toll free (877) 337-3573

Title: “Take 3” to Fight the Flu

Flu shots are available and hand-washing posters are up.  It’s the time of year when we are encouraged to take steps that will protect us from the flu - Actually 3 STEPS.

Step #1 – Take time to get a flu shot.

• This is the most important step for protecting yourself from getting the flu.
• Everyone 6 months and older should get the flu shot as soon as it is available.  Don’t wait!
• This year’s vaccine will protect against the 2009 H1N1, plus two other viruses: influenza A H3N2 and an influenza B virus.
• If you are a health care worker, get vaccinated.
• People at high risk for problems related to the flu should get vaccinated.  This includes young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions (such as asthma and diabetes), and people 65 years and older.

Step #2 – Take action to stop the spread of germs.

• When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue.  Throw the tissue in the trash right after you use it.
• Wash hands often with soap and water.  Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Stay away from people who are sick.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or some other necessity.
• Limit your contact with others.

Step #3 – Take flu antiviral drugs (if your doctor prescribes them).

• If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can treat your illness.
• These drugs are not available over-the-counter, but are available through a prescription written by your health care provider.
• Antiviral drugs are to be used within the first two days of the illness starting and are used to treat people who are very sick.

Watch for flu-like symptoms, which include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.  Check in with your doctor if you are concerned about your symptoms. For general online information, go to www.cdc.gov/flu.

For questions about the flu or for more information, contact the Four Corners Health Department at 420-362-2621 or 1-877-337-3573. Or send questions to:  questions@fourcorners.ne.gov