As winter approaches, public health officials are becoming increasingly concerned about the rise in influenza and measles outbreaks.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can lead to severe illness and even death.

Influenza Outbreaks

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were an estimated 38 million cases of influenza in the United States during the 2019-2020 flu season, with 22,000 deaths.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza, and the CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a flu vaccine every year.

Measles Outbreaks

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe respiratory illness, brain swelling, and even death.

The disease was virtually eradicated in the United States in 2000, but there have been recent outbreaks due to a decline in vaccination rates and increased travel to areas with outbreaks.

Symptoms of Influenza and Measles

The symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue.

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Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

Preventing Influenza and Measles

Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza and measles. The CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a flu vaccine every year, and that children receive two doses of the measles vaccine.

Other prevention measures include washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and staying home if you are sick.

What to Do If You Have Symptoms

If you have symptoms of influenza or measles, it is important to seek medical attention. Influenza can be treated with antiviral medications if caught early, and measles can be prevented with a post-exposure vaccine.

If you are diagnosed with either illness, you should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the disease to others.

Conclusion

The rise in influenza and measles outbreaks is a serious public health concern. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent these diseases, and it is important for everyone to get vaccinated.

If you have symptoms of either illness, seek medical attention and take steps to prevent spreading the disease to others.