CLARKSVILLE, IN (December 11, 2023) – Cases of the flu are on the rise across the state of Indiana and now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has raised the spread rate in the Hoosier State to ‘Moderate’. Indiana was in the ‘Low’ rate of spread as of November 25th. According to WISH-TV in Indianapolis, six flu-related deaths have been reported in Indiana so far this flu season. Cases of the flu have been on the rise across much of the United States, with the bulk of the cases being in the south and in California.
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract. Flu illness can be mild to severe and in some cases may even cause death. Although anyone can become infected with flu, people 65 years and older, young children, and people with other health conditions are at higher risk for hospitalization and complications from flu. The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its complications is by getting vaccinated every year.
Symptoms usually include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhea and nausea occasionally in children
The best way not to get flu is to get a flu shot every year before the flu season starts. Since flu viruses change over time, it is important to get a shot each year. Each year the vaccine is remade to include the types of flu viruses scientist think will be around to cause illness during the flu season. The vaccine begins to protect you within a few days after you get the flu shot, but the vaccine is not fully effective until about 14 days after the shot.
You should also:
- Use your elbow or upper arm, instead of your hands, or a tissue to cover your mouth and nose or when you cough or sneeze. Immediately throw used tissues into the trash can.
- Wash your hands with soap and water after coughing or sneezing, or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner if water is not available.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you get flu, stay home from work, school, and social gatherings.