Flu bug hits county citizens
BY RHONDA JONES

Since the later part of January flu cases have increased tremendously in Cherokee County, especially in the Rusk and Jacksonville areas. The epidemic status is not only limited to Cherokee County but throughout the state. Texas is one of 10 states with at least half of its flu-like illnesses diagnosed as influenza.

Local citizens who have not gotten their flu shots are reminded that the county health department still has 500 vaccinations left.

At the beginning of January flu reports were relatively low. However, by the latter part of the month and into the beginning of February, flu reports have consistently increased to the point where activity is now listed as high. Flu surveillance reports include actual diagnosed cases of flu and cases of influenza-like illnesses.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, extreme tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and body aches. Diarrhea and vomiting are more common in children than adults. Influenza can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

Every year 5-20 percent of the population in the United States develops influenza and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized with complications. Approximately 36,000 people die each year from the flu. Influenza is usually spread from person to person in respiratory droplets when people who are infected cough or sneeze. Respiratory droplets can also live for hours on surfaces. People may become infected by touching something with influenza virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes.

Area citizens are encouraged to practice good handwashing, avoid close contact with sick people, cough or sneeze into a tissue or your sleeve, avoid rubbing your eyes, nose, or mouth and stay home when you are sick. The best way to prevent influenza is by getting a yearly vaccination.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not too late in the influenza season to receive the vaccine. However, since it takes about two weeks to develop full immunity after receiving a flu shot, it is important to get it as soon as possible.

Flu shots are available at both health department clinics, located at 593 N. Main St. in Rusk and 510 E. Commerce St. in Jacksonville. Cost for adult influenza vaccinations are $20 and are covered by Medicare Part B. Cost for children aged 6 months to 18 years is $10. For more information on influenza, go to www. cchdtexas.org.

Rhonda Jones is a LVN at the Cherokee County Health Department.