Over 100 Adams County residents with lab confirmed influenza

Adams County Health Department is receiving new reports daily of lab confirmed influenza positive patients. The reports are similar to other areas of the state and are predominantly influenza A. Many more are ill with influenza like illness symptoms and have not been tested.

It is not too late to get a flu shot and residents are advised to stay home if ill.

Nationwide there has been an increase in hospital admissions for influenza, including an increase in patients needing intensive care. Five flu-related deaths have been reported in Washington state, including one death in neighboring Grant County.

Symptoms of the flu (influenza) include temperature greater than 100 degrees Farenheight with cough and or sore throat. Those with influenza may also get headaches, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Not every person with the flu will have a fever. People who develop trouble breathing need to seek emergency care or contact their doctor immediately.

It is not too late to get a flu shot. Flu vaccine is still available at all provider offices in Adams County and through the Adams County Health Department. Residents should call a provider to schedule a flu shot. Drop in clinics are available on Wednesday at the Ritzville office from 8:30 to noon and 1-4:30pm.

Flu shots are recommended for all people over the age of six months.

Both children and adults who are diagnosed with the flu by a doctor or who have a cough with a fever should remain at home until the fever and cough are gone to avoid spreading the flu to others. Reminders:

People with the flu can make others sick one day before symptoms appear and up to five days after symptoms begin.

Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Use tissues and throw them away in nearest garbage can.

Wash hands with warm water and soap or alcohol based hand sanitizer after coughing, sneezing or touching your nose or mouth.

If you are sick, stay home. If that is not possible use a mask in a public places like the grocery store or doctors office. Ill mothers should also use a mask when caring for their infant.

If a doctor prescribes antiviral medication make sure to finish the entire prescription.

Warning signs to watch for:

In children: Fast breathing or trouble breathing; bluish skin color; not drinking enough fluids; not waking up or not interacting; being so irritable that the child does not want to be held; flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough; fever with a rash.

In adults: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; sudden dizziness; confusion; severe or persistent vomiting.

The flu is serious: individuals should get a flu shot and stay away from others if ill.

For further information contact Adams County Health Department at 659-3316.