Flu activity continues to rise in Michigan, prompting Mid-Michigan District Health Department (MMDHD) to remind residents that it’s not too late to get their influenza vaccine.
“As we head into peak flu season (late January/mid-February), we want to encourage anyone who hasn’t already been vaccinated to do so,” said Dr. Robert Graham, Medical Director for MMDHD. “We would also like to reassure residents that vaccine is in plentiful supply this year and that it’s definitely not too late to get vaccinated.”
The health department would also like to clear up any confusion regarding the difference between norovirus and influenza. Norovirus easily spreads from person to person, through contaminated food or water, and by touching contaminated surfaces. Common symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Influenza spreads from person-to-person, through coughs and sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces. Those who fall ill to the dreaded flu can expect to experience high fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and all-over muscle aches for up to one week. And while the flu is no doubt miserable, for many it can turn deadly.
“The best way to prevent the flu and its potentially serious complications is for everyone, including healthy people, six months and older to get vaccinated,” said Graham.
In addition to getting vaccinated, residents should take these everyday preventative measures to stop the spread of germs:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water. If none are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs are spread this way.
· Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
· If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without the use of fever-reducing medicines).
· While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness. Studies show that one person infected with the flu can potentially infect up to 15 others.
MMDHD will be offering flu shots at the following clinics (walk-ins welcome, appointments appreciated):
Clinton County Branch Office: February 9th from 9 – 11:30 a.m. and 1-4:30 p.m.
February 17th from 9 – 11:30 a.m. and 1-4:30 p.m.
If you have not yet received your flu shot, please call MMDHD at 989-224-2195 in Clinton County, 989-875-3681 in Gratiot County, or 989-831-5237 in Montcalm County to make an appointment. The vaccine is available at no cost for the uninsured, or those with Medicaid or Medicare Part B. Those with insurance that covers the cost of immunizations should first contact their physician.