SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Steps to Prevent the Flu

Incident #: 
Date of Incident: 01/17/2013
Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
Every year, an estimated 5% to 20% of the United States populace suffers from seasonal influenza, aka “the flu.” While many consider the flu "just a bad cold," in reality, each year in the U.S., it's estimated that 200,000 or more are hospitalized for flu complications and thousands will die from flu related causes.  In light of the announcement that a Spokane resident has died from the flu, it is even more important to remind everyone of the overall impact the flu can have on our community AND how to prevent it.

Many people are classified as high risk for the flu by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These groups include the elderly, young children, caregivers – including our firefighters, and people with chronic illness. Vaccination is valuable for everyone, but it is especially important for those who are considered high risk. In addition, it is recommended that any person in close contact with someone in a high-risk group get vaccinated.

Flu can also burden the health care system, including AMR and Spokane Firefighter/Paramedics, who already treat hundreds of people each day with a multitude of illness and injuries.

That's why the we (and @spokanehealth) are encouraging you to practice six simple habits that can minimize your risk:

1. Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Speak with your physician today about getting a flu vaccination or using antiviral medication.  Getting a vaccination and practicing these Six Simple Habits can be a lifesaver for you and those you love. To learn more, visit:  FLU.gov

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002