Health officials continue to ask the public to take steps to limit the spread of flu

About half the country is experiencing high levels of flu activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Winneshiek County is among that half, according to Winneshiek Medical Center Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert Flinchbaugh.  He and other local physicians are urging the public to take steps to stop the spread of flue.

Dr. Flinchbaugh says, "Most people recover from the flu in a few days, but for some, it causes complications that can threaten their health."

People with the flu can spread it to others when they cough, sneeze or talk and germ droplets spread to nearby people who get it in their mouth or nose or inhale it.  You can also get the flu by touching a surface that is infected with the virus and then touching your mouth or nose.

Dr. Flinchbaugh recommends cleaning your hands frequently with soap and water and staying away from people who are sick.  If you are among those who are sick, stay home and away from public places like the hospital, church, school and nursing homes.  Finally, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
 
The flu is different from a cold and usually comes on suddenly.  People can have the flu without having a fever.  "Many people develop some or all of these symptoms during flu season," says Dr. Flinchbaugh.