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WISCONSIN RESIDENTS URGED TO GET INFLUENZA VACCINE

Late Start to Influenza Season Requires Renewed Attention to Prevention

MADISON—The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is encouraging people to get vaccinated against influenza in light of a recent increase in confirmed cases, state officials said. Influenza rates have risen recently in Wisconsin and nationwide.

"While flu season started late this year, it is not too late to be vaccinated," said Dr. Henry Anderson, State Health Officer. "Anyone over six months old can receive the vaccine and supplies are available." This is the latest start to the influenza season in 29 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Flu symptoms include fever, body aches, fatigue, headache, and sore throat, and appear one to five days after infection. Severe illness can include pneumonia.

Anderson encourages people to take precautions to protect themselves against the spread of influenza:

•  Get vaccinated 
•  Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer 
•  Cover coughs and sneezes with your arm or sleeve 
•  Stay home when you are sick 
•  Avoid close contact with others who are sick 
•  Don't share drinking cups and straws 
•  Clean commonly touched surfaces like door knobs, refrigerator handles, telephones, and faucets

For more information about influenza: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/influenza/index.htm

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Last Revised:  March 01, 2012