The latest Weekly Influenza Report from the Indiana Department of Health shows that flu activity increased sharply in the final weeks of 2017, resulting in multiple flu-related deaths.
The report from December 21st stated that the influenza-like-illness (ILI) activity code was minimal with only 2 deaths reported. On the very next report from December 29th, the ILI activity code had been changed to high with a total of 9 deaths reported.
According to the statistics, one of those deaths occurred to an individual between the ages of 5 and 24 but the majority of reported mortalities were for Indiana residents over the age of 50.
Citizens are encouraged to take extra precautions to protect themselves from the flu this season. People who work with children or the elderly are especially urged to obtain flu-shots in order to prevent catching and spreading influenza. The Indiana Department of Health encourages Hoosiers to practice the “Three Cs” to help prevent the spread of flu and other infectious diseases.
Those “Three C’s” are Clean, Cover and Contain. “Clean” by properly washing hands frequently with warm, soapy water and disinfecting potentially contaminated areas. Cover your cough and sneeze into the crook of your arm or a disposable tissue to keep germs from spreading. Finally, contain the illness by staying home from school or work when you start to exhibit symptoms.
Stay up-to-date with new information by checking The Department of Health Influenza Report which is updated every Friday.
