Flu Season Strikes Early In Georgia

ATLANTA

–

The flu has arrived in Georgia! While the flu level is still considered moderate in

Georgia, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting significant increases in

flu activity statewide. Some Georgia school systems are reporting high absenteeism due to flulike

illnesses.

The flu is hitting Georgia earlier and harder this year than in previous years. The early onset of

the H3N2 flu is one indication of a potentially severe flu season. Symptoms of the flu include

cough, runny nose, sore throat and fever. One of the most pronounced flu symptoms is an

overall feeling of achiness and malaise that comes on quickly.

The single most effective way to prevent the flu is the flu vaccine.

This year’s flu vaccine

closely matches the strains of flu circulating in Georgia making it effective in preventing the flu

or minimizing its symptoms. Every healthy individual over the age of 6 months should get a flu

vaccine.

“Because t

he flu vaccine so closely matches this year’s flu strains, it just makes good common

sense to get it

,” said J. Patrick O’Neal, M.D., director of health protection, Georgia Department

of Public Health. “The holidays

bring gatherings with family and friends and increase the

likelihood of spreading the flu. N

ow is the time to get vaccinated.”

Frequent and thorough hand washing also will help guard against the flu. Alcohol based gels

are the next best thing if there is no access to soap and water. Cover the nose and mouth

when coughing and sneezing to help prevent the spread of the flu. Use a tissue or cough or

sneeze into the crook of the elbow or arm. Avoid touching your face as flu germs can get into

the body through mucus membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes. If you are sick, stay home

from school or work. Flu sufferers should be free of a fever without the use of a fever reducer

(Tylenol) for at least 24 hours before returning to work or school.

Based on the early arrival of the flu, this flu season could be a long one. Peak flu season is

usually the end of January and runs through late February or early March. It is important to

take preventative measures now to minimize the effects of the flu and stay healthy this flu