Genesis Suggests Measures To Limit Additional Spread Of Seasonal Flu

DAVENPORT, Iowa -- At the peak of the year for seasonal influenza (flu), Genesis Health System is suggesting several measures to limit the additional spread of flu in the Quad Cities.

Jim Lehman, M.D., Vice President of Quality, Genesis Health System, is asking that children not visit relatives and friends at Genesis hospitals at this time.  He also asks that anyone with symptoms of the flu first seek treatment through their primary physican's office or Genesis Convenient Care instead of going to very busy hospital emergency departments.

Iowa is one of 31 states with "widespread'' flu activity at this time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Illinois is reporting "regional'' flu activity.

"Young children are not only susceptible to the flu, they are also very efficient carriers of viruses and most have not been vaccinated against the flu,'' said Dr. Lehman.  "We would like to ask visitors to the hospital to not bring young children to visit at this time.

"And we would ask that anyone who has been experiencing cold or flu symptoms not visit the hospital.  We would like to do all we can to prevent the flu from continuing to spread.''

While the flu season may be peaking at this time, the peak could extend several weeks, Lehman said.

"The fact that we may have hit the peak of flu season doesn't mean that
we're going to see a rapid decline now in flu cases,'' Dr. Lehman said. 

One of the factors this flu season that is different from past seasons is that this year's flu vaccine was not a perfect match for two of the three main flu viruses affecting people across the country this season.

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is still recommending flu shots even in February to lessen the severity and length of symptoms if you get the flu.

Influenza is often confused with a cold. Seasonal influenza is a respiratory condition that can resemble a cold, but has different and more severe symptoms.

Symptoms of the flu include chills, headache, fever of 102 to 104 degrees, moderate to severe fatigue and possible extreme exhaustion.

"If you, or someone in your family exhibits flu symptoms, the best place for them is at home,'' Lehman said.  "Anyone with the flu should not go to school or to work.  Antiviral drugs can be prescribed by a physician and may shorten the period when symptoms are present.''

Flu Prevention Tips

•  Wash your hands regularly! Wash with soap and water for at least 10 seconds. Sing the Happy Birthday song twice before you finish washing. Antibacterial soap can dry your hands and cracked hands may leave you vulnerable to viruses and bacteria. When you leave the restroom, use a paper towel to turn the handle of the door.
• Get a flu shot. The flu shot is not a live virus and cannot make you ill.  This season, it is not too late to receive a flu shot.
• Do not re-use handkerchiefs. Also, dispose of tissues after use.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
• Clean the items you touch frequently. Use antibacterial, disinfectant wipes to clean your computer keyboard, telephone and glasses.
• Do not share drinks or drink out of other people’s glasses. Do not drink directly from a milk, juice or soda container.  Make sure your dishes are properly cleaned between uses.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs.
• If you are sick, stay home from work, school and avoid public areas.   Don’t pass the flu on to others. Avoid contact with people who are sick.

Source: Jim Lehman, M.D., Vice President of Quality, Genesis Health System.

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