Macon County General Hospital Working for Your Better Health
Seasonal Influenza (FLU)
FLU Vaccine for the 2012-2013 Influenza Season has begun shipping from manufacturers. Shipments will continue throughout the Fall. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a yearly vaccine. Right now, there is very little seasonal flu activity. Flu season usually begins in October and can last through May. Get Vaccinated before FLU Season starts.
1CDC recommends a yearly FLU Vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against Flu Viruses
2Take everyday Preventive Actions to Stop the Spread of GERMS!
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze – Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it!-
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand rub/gel.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
3Take FLU Antiviral Drugs if your Doctor prescribes them.
Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines (pills or liquid) and are not available over the counter.
Antiviral drugs can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They may also prevent serious flu complications.
Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.
For additional information, please contact Nurse Margaret at 666-2147, ext: 394.
