HARRISBURG –– The Pennsylvania Department of Health is reminding everyone there is still time to get immunized against the flu as the number of illnesses from the virus remain extremely high across the commonwealth.
From Oct. 2 through Feb. 11, according to the Department of Health, there are 62 reported cases of influenza in Potter County, 56 in McKean County, 38 in Elk County and six in Cameron County.
“As long as the flu virus is circulating in a community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Karen Murphy. “The flu shot is still the best way to make sure you and your loved ones are protected. Now that we are in peak flu season, make sure you’re taking steps to prevent getting sick with the virus. In addition to getting vaccinated, everyone should also practice common sense prevention methods like washing your hands often and staying home from school or work when you’re sick with the flu.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced that the 2016-2017 seasonal flu has reached epidemic levels, with widespread activity reported in 43 states across the country. Pennsylvania has reported widespread flu activity for the past eight consecutive weeks and anticipates that status to remain as such for the next several weeks. A total of 33,271 influenza cases and 51 flu-related fatalities have been reported to the Department of Health so far this season.
Anyone who has not yet received his or her flu shot should do so as soon as possible, as it takes two weeks for the body to build the resistance given by the vaccine, officials say.
The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. It is even more important for those at higher risk of getting the flu to get their flu shot, officials said.
High-risk groups include children and infants, pregnant women, seniors, people with disabilities and people with health conditions. Symptoms of the flu range from mild to severe, but severe infection can lead to hospitalization or even death, no matter your age or health status. Common symptoms of the flu include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue and vomiting and diarrhea (though this is more common in children than adults).
In addition to getting a flu shot, individuals should wash their hands often, avoid sneezing into their hands, limit touching their face, clean doorknobs and handles, and stay home from school or work when they have the flu.
For more information about the flu, visit www.health.pa.gov.
