By William Hablitzel-
March begins with widespread influenza activity in Adams County and much of the country. In the United States, seasonal influenza tends to peak between December and March, although the influenza virus can cause illness from early October to late May. Influenza viruses spread mainly from person to person through coughs and sneezes of infected people, however, it is possible to become infected by touching a surface contaminated by the virus and then touching the eyes, mouth, or nose. When influenza activity is widespread, school and work attendance is often a concern. There are ways to reduce the spread of influenza this time of year in our schools and workplaces.
The single best way to prevent influenza is to be vaccinated for influenza each year. This year, the influenza vaccine has been a good match for the viruses circulating throughout the community. There is still time to get a flu shot. While it is possible to get influenza even after having the vaccination, the illness is often less severe and of shorter duration.
Symptoms of influenza typically include fever, body aches, cough, and fatigue. One of the most important ways to reduce the spread of influenza is to stay home from school or work when ill and to remain home until at least 24-hours after fever, or signs of fever, have resolved without the use of fever-reducing medication. Influenza can be serious and reducing its spread to others demonstrates concern and respect for other members of our community.
Covering coughs and sneezes with tissues that are properly discarded or coughing into a bent-arm can reduce the airborne transmission of not only influenza virus, but the many viruses that cause influenza-like illnesses this time of year. Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, drying hands with paper towel, and using the paper towel to turn off the faucet should be encouraged throughout the day. When soap and water is not available, hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol may be used. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Regularly cleaning surfaces frequently touched, such as desks, counter tops, computer keyboards, telephones, and doorknobs can help reduce the spread of influenza. Studies have shown that the influenza virus can live and potentially infect a person for only 2 to 8 hours after being deposited on a surface. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend special sanitizing processes beyond routine cleaning, including the closing of schools or workplaces for “deep cleaning” to slow the spread of influenza, even during an outbreak.
For additional information about influenza and how to prevent its spread, contact the Adams County Health Department at (937) 544-5547.