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CONTACT: Stephanie Smiley, (608)266-5862
GET YOUR FLU VACCINE BEFORE FLU ACTIVITY INCREASES
Influenza Cases Already Reported; Vaccine Is the Best
Way to Prevent the Flu
MADISON—State health officials today reminded Wisconsin residents to
get their annual influenza vaccine because flu season has already
started and is expected to worsen. Flu season for Wisconsin generally
runs from late October to May, with peak activity around early February.
“Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to avoid getting the
flu,” said Dr. Henry Anderson, State Health Officer. Most health care
providers are already offering flu vaccines, making this a good time to
get immunized ahead of the expected increase in case numbers, he noted.
To get your flu shot, contact your healthcare provider, local public
health department or tribal health clinic, or go to
www.flu.gov to find a flu vaccination
center near you. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), influenza vaccine will continue to be shipped to
Wisconsin throughout the flu season.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. The
flu vaccine helps prevent complications that can be caused by the flu,
such as pneumonia or hospitalization. With few exceptions, officials
recommend that individuals aged six months and older be immunized.
Getting vaccinated against influenza is especially important for people
aged 50 and older, and those with underlying health conditions. It is
equally important for those who have frequent contact with young
children to get vaccinated, as children are hospitalized or die from flu
complications each year in the U.S.
Influenza can range from mild to severe, and in some cases can cause
life-threatening complications. Symptoms can come on quickly and include
fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches
and tiredness.
To protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu,
officials suggest taking the following steps:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with your upper sleeve, and try to
avoid touching your face with your hand. If you use a tissue, throw
it away after one use.
- Use your own drinking cups and straws.
- Avoid being exposed to people who are sick with flu-like
symptoms.
- Eat nutritious meals, get plenty of rest and do not smoke.
- Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces (e.g., door knobs,
refrigerator handle, telephone, faucets).
- If you think you have the flu, stay home, get rest, drink plenty
of liquids and avoid using alcohol and tobacco. If your symptoms
persist, contact your doctor.
To learn more about influenza, visit
http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/influenza/.
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Last Revised:
October 19, 2012
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