PUBLIC HEALTH: FLU SEASON IS STILL UPON US (AND IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO GET A FLU SHOT!)

The Georgia Department of Public Health, Northwest Health District, would like to remind everyone (if you were not already aware) that flu season is still upon us.

Logan Boss, Public Information Officer, indicates that so far this flu season, more than 22 million Americans have been struck by the flu. There have been over 12,000 flu-related deaths across the nation, primarily among people over the age of 65 and/or with underlying health conditions.

The good news is that it is not too late to get a flu shot, adds Boss. This is the best means of protection from the spread of flu. Other preventative measures include frequent handwashing, covering your mouth with your arm whenever you sneeze or cough, and staying home from school or work if you happen to be sick.

Flu season can last until May, asserts Boss. Symptoms of the flu may include a cough, fever, sore throat, stuffy/runny nose, body aches, headaches, chills, and fatigue. For additional information about the flu and flu prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control’s website at www.cdc.gov/flu.