Hospital treats increasing flu cases

Because of the steep and unforeseen increase in the number of flu cases this year, St. Joseph’s Hospital’s influx of flu patients has resulted in visitor restrictions. Currently, the flu is considered widespread in every state in the United States with the exception of Hawaii and the District of Columbia.

In Connecticut.Of the positive laboratory tests that have been reported to CT DPH during the current season (August 27 – January 6), 16.2% were influenza B viruses.

Cohen noted past year the admissions were sporadic, with four patients in March 2017 at the same time and others being “one here, one there”.

Among the new strategies: Researchers are dissecting the cloak that disguises influenza as it sneaks past the immune system, and finding some rare targets that stay the same from strain to strain, year to year. “Though it is being reported that the flu shot is only somewhat effective against this year’s flu strains, the vaccine will still lessen the severity and length of the flu symptoms”.

Getting a flu shot will not cause the flu, though shots can sometimes cause mild, flu-like symptoms and soreness at the injection site, Partin said.

“We’ve been.at maximum capacity on several occasions during the past two weeks”, she said.

Right now, the flu is widespread in 49 states, Georgia especially getting hit hard.

Green said flu season is peaking a little earlier this year, meaning officials have seen more cases of it earlier than usual.

“The flu had gone to pneumonia that had gone to septic shock”, he said.

If you haven’t gotten the flu shot already, there is still time and it’s a good idea.

Wash your hands – Every time you touch a common surface like phones, keyboards, doorknobs, tables, and desks, there is a chance of virus transmission because most people will eventually touch their faces, noses, and mouths, and that can lead to flu infection.

Alexander-Scott said anyone who experiences flu-like symptoms should talk with their primary care physician before going to a hospital, unless the symptoms are severe.

As most everyone is well aware, we are in the midst of a significant flu season nationwide. Not everyone who gets the flu goes to the doctor, but those who do reveal the outbreak pattern.

Dan Nafziger, chief medical officer of Goshen Hospital, said he hasn’t seen any data that suggest the flu season peak has been reached yet there, where the emergency room remains busy.

As for this year’s vaccine, the CDC still said that is the first line of defense.

“It’s not too late to get vaccinated”, she said.

Adults: difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

Yes, you should definitely get the vaccine, just because of the prevelance of the flu. “So it’s just a coincidence”.

-Try to avoid close contact with sick people.