Flu bug is hitting Winneshiek County

Testing done by the State Hygienic Laboratory indicates flu activity is increasing in Winneshiek County.

The Iowa Department of Public Health and Winneshiek County Public Health Department say the flu season typically peaks in February and can last as late as May.

"If you have flu symptoms, help out your family, friends and co-workers by staying home to avoid spreading the virus," said Winneshiek County Public Health Director Krista VandenBrink. "It's also important to remember to cover your coughs and sneezes and clean your hands frequently to help yourself and others say healthy."

The most common flu virus circulating is the influenza A(H3N2) strain, although four different strains have been identified.  LOcal and state health officials say the flu season tends to be more severe with more hospitalizations and deaths In years when A(H3N2) viruses dominate. 

While the flu vaccine is the best defense against getting influenza, some of the A(H3N2) viruses may only be partially covered in the vaccine.

Local and state health officials say that makes it even more important to take personal actions to help prevent the spread of illness, including covering your coughs and sneezes; cleaning your hands frequently; and containing germs by staying home when ill.

Anti-viral medications are an important second line of defense to treat the flu in persons at highest risk of developing more severe illness. Anti-viral medications can make flu illness shorter and reduce the risk of ending up in the hospital or dying from influenza. Antivirals work best if started within 48 hours or sooner of when flu symptoms begin.

The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. The flu comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days. Influenza may cause severe illness or even death in people such as the very young or very old, or those who have underlying health conditions.

Contact your health care provider or the Winneshiek County Public Health Department to find out where the vaccine is available in your community or use the Flu Vaccine Finder at www.flu.gov.