Twenty-four cases of Influenza B and four cases of Influenza A in Grundy County have been reported to the Grundy County Health Department in Trenton as of Wednesday, January 22, 2020.
Epidemiology Specialist Kelli Hillerman expects the actual number of cases of flu in the county to be higher because not everyone who has it may seek a medical evaluation from a health care provider and be tested for a virus.
The flu first case was reported to the health department in October.
Hillerman describes influenza as a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system and emphasizes it is not the same as the stomach flu. Influenza A and B are the two types that cause epidemic seasonal infections almost every year.
Hillerman says the symptoms of the flu tend to come on faster than those of a cold. Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, running or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. There is not usually fever or chills with a cold, and headaches are rare with a cold.
She encourages individuals to contact a health care provider if they think they have the flu.
Hillerman says complications can include pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, or worsening of chronic conditions. The likelihood of someone having complications or dying from the flu depends on an individual’s health status and severity of the flu.
Receiving a vaccine is considered to be the best way to prevent the flu.
Other ways are to avoid contact with others who are sick, staying home when sick, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching the face, disinfecting and cleaning surfaces, receiving rest, staying active, and eating nutritious food.
Hillerman says vaccines are available at health departments, health care providers, and many pharmacies. It is recommended everyone at least six months old receive a flu vaccine. There are higher doses for individuals at least 65 years old, and some places also have nasal spray vaccines available.
The Grundy County Health Department offers flu shots on a walk-in basis on Tuesdays. Immunizations are also offered at the office on Wednesdays and by appointment at other times.
More information on influenza can be obtained from health departments, health care providers, and other credible sources.
