Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Flu Season

With reports of illness showing flu season is off to an early start in the state, Wyoming’s state health officer is encouraging residents to get their annual flu vaccination.
Dr. Wendy Braund, state health officer and Public Health Division senior administrator with the Wyoming Department of Health, said reports of influenza activity in Wyoming have been confirmed, especially in Sheridan County. “While flu season officially runs from October through May, Wyoming’s typical peak time is February and March. So we do think this early activity is important to note.”
Braund said almost everyone who is six months or older should get an annual flu vaccine because they are a key tool to help prevent influenza. “Whether you choose a flu shot or a nasal spray vaccine, getting immunized is safe and is the single most effective thing most people can do to help prevent getting ill with influenza or passing it on to others.”
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. Symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. Basic common-sense measures can also slow the spread of influenza. “Simple steps such as covering your mouth and nose with your sleeve or a tissue when you sneeze and cough; frequently washing your hands; and staying home from work, school, day care and errands when you are ill can help,” Braund said.

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