Wednesday, December 31, 2003

Widespread flu activity reflects public awareness, early season

Health officials remind public to be alert for complications

Last week, the Georgia Department of Human Resources’ Division of Public Health notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that the state is upgrading the level of flu activity from Regional to Widespread.

The change reflects the fact that most of the state is now reporting some flu activity, explained DPH Director Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H.

“This change in status underscores the need for people to increase diligence about protecting themselves and others from the flu,” Toomey said. “It is critical for everyone to keep washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying at home when sick.”

Every year 10-20 percent of the population will catch influenza, commonly known as flu, and most healthy adults and children recover with rest and plenty of fluids.

“Influenza can make you feel rotten, but almost all healthy adults and children recover with plenty of fluids and lots of rest,” Toomey explained.

It is important for everyone to remember that when normally healthy adults and children, those without chronic medical conditions, develop unusual symptoms or complications, they need to seek medical attention. Complications and unusual symptoms may include difficult or painful breathing, confusion, uncontrolled fever or dehydration. If someone relapses after starting to recover, that person also needs to seek medical attention, because it could be a sign of secondary infection.

To see how you can help protect you or your children this flu season, visit www.health.state.ga.us.