Earlier this flu season, in about a month and a half, McKean County went from having 62 reported flu cases to 370, and Potter County, 100 to 388.
And now the number of cases across those two counties are on the decline, according to local hospital officials.
“We have definitely seen a decrease in the number of diagnosed influenza cases in the emergency room as well as the number of admissions to (Bradford Regional Medical Center),” said Terrie O’Brien, infection prevention/patient safety at BRMC. “This is an indication that we are coming off of the peak for the season.”
Even though there’s a decrease, things aren’t over, O’Brien said. Officials are still seeing cases of influenza being diagnosed and admitted to the hospital.
“So far, this region’s Influenza season has been at par with activity across the Commonwealth,” said Dawn Snyder, spokeswoman for UPMC Cole of Coudersport. “The total number of patients presenting with Influenza has decreased since last month.”
Flu activity can last until May, Snyder, she said. Typical flu symptoms include fever, achiness, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat and congestion.
“The influenza vaccine is recommended as the best way to prevent infection as long as the virus is circulating in the community,” O’Brien said.
In fact, Snyder said, vaccines are vital for individuals at high-risk of serious flu complications, such as young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease, and people 65 years and older.
“Try to avoid close contact with sick people,” she pointed out. “While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. If you are sick with flu-like illness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you stay home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities.”
Individuals should also cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. “Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub,” Snyder said. “Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.”
For more information about the flu, see www.flufreepa.com.
