The flu season this year has been particularly severe, with the death toll in the United States now reaching 42. The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to severe health complications.
It is caused by the influenza virus, which rapidly spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing.
Young Victims Hit Hardest
While the flu can affect anyone, certain populations are more vulnerable to its effects. This year, young people have been hit particularly hard. Of the 42 reported deaths from the flu, many have been teenagers and young adults.
This is a reminder that the flu can be deadly for people of any age.
Flu Symptoms
The flu can come on suddenly and symptoms can vary in severity. Common symptoms include:.
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
Prevention and Treatment
The best way to prevent getting the flu is to get vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the strains of influenza virus that are expected to be most common in a given season.
It is recommended that everyone over the age of six months gets vaccinated annually.
If you do get the flu, antiviral medications can be prescribed by a healthcare provider to help relieve symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness.
It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, especially in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
Flu Season in Full Swing
The flu season typically lasts from October to May, with peak activity occurring between December and February. This means that there is still plenty of time for the virus to continue spreading this year.
It is important to take precautions to protect yourself and those around you.
Precautions to Reduce Transmission
There are simple measures that can be taken to reduce the transmission of the flu:.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are commonly touched
Stay Informed
It is important to stay informed about the flu and take appropriate precautions. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for up-to-date information about the flu and flu vaccines.