The increase over the last couple of weeks puts the county slightly above the 5-year average for flu-hospitalizations, CCCHD spokesperson Emma Smales said.
“But we are still not seeing any drastic increase in the numbers,” Smales said.
The flu is a common viral infection that can easily spread from person to person. Typically, a healthy person can fight off the flu with rest, but it can be dangerous for young children and the elderly.
More on the flu this season: Clark County flu season is beating yearly trend so far
There were 308 cases of flu recorded in Clark County in 2018, according to the Clark County Combined Health District. That’s two times more than there was in 2017, according to the same statistics.
Symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. And while most people fully recover after getting sick, some experience severe illness and the flu can sometimes be fatal.
People who think that they may have the flu and are pregnant, have an underlying medical condition, or who are extremely ill should contact their health care provider immediately.
Champaign County has only reported one flu-related hospitalization so far this season, according to data from the CCCHD.
Flu season in Oio begins in October and lasts through May. The start of the season is usually slow, but officials warn residents to take precautions during the holiday season when people tend to be in close proximity to others.
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The health district encourages residents to get a flu shot to prevent the spread of the virus.
“The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year,” Smales said. “But good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.”
Some of those healthy habits include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, washing your hands often or using hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth — as germs are usually spread when a person touches something contaminated and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.
Practicing other good health habits like disinfecting frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill, getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious foods can help prevent illness as well, the health district said.
4: Cases of flu-related hospitalizations in Clark County between Nov. 16 and Nov. 23
5: Cases of flu-related hospitalization in Clark County between Nov. 30 and Dec. 7
1: Case of flu-related hospitalization in Champaign County so far this season
The Springfield News-Sun provides unmatched coverage of the flu season in Clark and Champaign County, including stories about how to prevent getting sick and an updated list of flu deaths.
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