Welcome to Skagit County

March 4th, 2009

Influenza/Flu Increasing in Skagit County

Skagit County is beginning to see an increase in flulike illnesses reported through our local labs, emergency rooms, schools, and provider offices. We now have 20 cases reported, with 8 reports received in the last week. Most of the flu diagnosed are Influenza A strains, and there are 2 A strains in our flu vaccine this year. And 1 elementary school in Anacortes had greater then 10% of their students out one day last week with flulike illnesses.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot each year in October/November. Every year in the US, on the average 5-20% of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications (mostly pneumonia); and about 36,000 die.

Flu vaccine protects against the 3 main flu viruses that research indicates will cause the most illness during flu season. It can protect you from getting sick and/or making it a milder illness if you still get sick. Those high risk people who should get a flu shot include:

Highest risk are young children, 6 months - 5 years of age; and now new this year, all children through 18 years old. Those age 6 months-8 years old receiving flu vaccine for the first time, need 2 doses, 1 month apart.
Pregnant women and their household, as the infant born cannot receive a flu shot until 6 months of age.
People with chronic health conditions like heart, asthma, or other lung disease.
People 65 and older.

The Health Department still has 200 doses flu vaccine available for adults and pregnant women for $25, as well as 200 doses of vaccine for all ages of children.

Everyday actions to prevent the spread of flu include cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing with a tissue, or cough or sneeze into your arm, not your hands. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing and sneezing. Alcohol based hand cleaners are effective when hand washing facilities aren't available. Avoid contact with sick people. Stay home from work or school when ill. And avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

If you get sick, antiviral medications (by prescription) can be taken to help lessen the flu symptoms and may also help prevent complications, but are only effective if started within the first 2 days of illness.