The flu season is in full swing, and the latest numbers are concerning. Two more people have been admitted to intensive care units with severe cases of the flu, bringing the total number of ICU cases to 15 so far this season.

In addition, there have been 85 confirmed flu-related deaths across the country.

What is the flu?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness that is caused by a virus.

The flu can be mild to severe and can result in hospitalization or death, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

How does the flu spread?

The flu is highly contagious and spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Common symptoms of the flu include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, and sore throat. Some people may also experience vomiting and diarrhea, although these symptoms are more common in children than adults.

How can you prevent the flu?

The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated every year. The flu vaccine can reduce your risk of getting the flu and can also make your symptoms milder if you do get sick.

Other ways to prevent the flu include washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick people, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and staying home if you are sick.

What should you do if you think you have the flu?

If you think you have the flu, it is important to stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible. Rest and stay hydrated, and consider taking over-the-counter medications to relieve your symptoms.

If your symptoms are severe or you are in a high-risk group, such as the elderly or people with underlying health conditions, you should seek medical attention.

What can you do to protect others from the flu?

If you have the flu, it is important to take steps to prevent the virus from spreading to others. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and avoid close contact with other people as much as possible.

You should also stay home until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

Conclusion

The flu is a serious illness that can have severe complications, especially for vulnerable populations.

It is important to take steps to prevent the flu from spreading and to seek medical attention if you think you have the flu or are in a high-risk group. Stay safe, stay healthy, and get vaccinated!.