Flu facts

From the Logan County Department of Public Health

[January 19, 2011]  As influenza activity continues to rise across the country, it is important to recognize the symptoms of the flu and how to care for yourself when you have the flu. All types of flu can cause fever or feeling feverish, coughing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and body aches, chills, and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

If you have been diagnosed with flu, you should stay home, follow your doctor's orders and watch for signs that would indicate you need immediate medical attention.

• Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever (100 degrees F or 37.8 degrees C) is gone, except to get medical care or for other things you have to do and no one else can do for you.

• Avoid close contact with others, especially those who might easily get the flu, such as people age 65 and older; people of any age with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease; pregnant women; and young children and infants.

• Clean hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub, especially after using tissues and after coughing or sneezing into your hands.

• To prevent becoming dehydrated, drink clear fluids such as water, broth, sports drinks or electrolyte beverages made for infants.

• Get plenty of rest.

• Get medical attention right away if you:

• Have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

• Experience pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.

• Have sudden dizziness.

• Become confused.

• Have severe or persistent vomiting.

• Experience flu-like symptoms that improve, but then return with fever and worse cough.

The combined seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine is available at the Logan County Department of Public Health for anyone 6 months of age and older through walk-in clinic hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., or on the HOPE Mobile during its regularly scheduled stops.

For more information on the seasonal influenza vaccine, call the Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317.

[Text from file received from the Logan County Department of Public Health]

Announcement sponsored by the Logan County Department of Public Health and the Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition.