Community Corner

If You Don't Want a Lump of Coal, Stay Home if You Have the Flu

Influenza is making the rounds in Michigan and public health officials are encouraging those who are sick to sit out holiday gatherings this year.

“Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother’s house we go …” the ditty goes as a flurry of holiday gatherings kicks off this weekend  – but not if you have the flu.

Michigan health officials are throwing a wet blanket on the celebratory atmosphere with a warning that influenza is on the uptick, including some cases requiring hospitalization, and warning people with symptoms to stay home.

“We advise individuals to stay home if they are sick over the holidays instead of visiting family,” Kathy Forzley, a public health official in Oakland County said in a news release. “Also, seek medical advice at the first signs of illness.”

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The Michigan Department of Community Health has upgraded flu activity in the state from “sporadic” to the next higher level of “local,” reflecting recent increases in confirmed influenza cases. Influenza A and B strains are circulating, with most cases being Influenza A/H1N1, and showing increases statewide.

The H1N1 strain has the potential to affect adults 20- to 50-years-old more severely. This age group, however, is less likely to get a flu shot which is essential to protect against the illness. The H1N1 strain is covered by this year’s flu shot.

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“Anyone can get the flu, even if you are healthy,” Forzley said. “Those who smoke, have asthma or diabetes, or are overweight may have more complications from the flu.”

Flu can be spread to others up to about six feet away, mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. Less often, a person might also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own nose or mouth. Washing hands often with soap and water is a proactive way to avoid this. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

The flu usually comes on suddenly and can cause mild to severe illness, and at times lead to death. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Muscle or body aches

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue (tiredness)

  • Some may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children

  • Although a flu shot won’t help if you’ve already got symptoms, there is still vaccine available. Contact your local Health Division office for more details.



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