Influenza is spreading quickly in our community and across the United States, shares RCH Infection Preventionist, Janine Sobin, and Employee Health Nurse, Kelly Musselman. The CDC estimates that over 4.6 million illnesses, 49,000 hospitalizations, and 1,900 deaths have already occurred this season. Our community positivity rate for influenza was 28.9% for last week and from Sunday to today jumped to 54.8%.
The predominant strain is a new variant of influenza A (H3N2). While our current flu shot this season covers H3N2, the variant has mutated a little from the strain in the vaccine. This does not mean the vaccine is ineffective. Those who have had the flu vaccine are less likely to be severely ill or hospitalized if they get the flu.
Tips to prevent or manage a case of influenza:
- Get your flu shot. Even getting it now (remember it takes 7-10 days to build immunity) offers protection for the months to come.
- WASH YOUR HANDS. Before you eat, after touching any environmental surfaces, after shopping, etc.
- Use good cough etiquette and teach others cough etiquette.
- Wear a mask in public places. Flu viruses stay in the air in two forms: larger droplets that fall quickly (minutes) and tiny aerosols that can linger from minutes to hours. An uncovered cough or sneeze by someone else could infect you.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly in your home and car.
- Get enough sleep and choose a healthy diet. Sufficient sleep and proper nutrition are critical for strengthening the immune system, helping to prevent the flu and/or reduce its severity.
- Do not come to work sick. If you do experience any symptoms, stop the spread by staying home as needed. Ask your employer regarding their respective policy so you are prepared.