Monday, January 21, 2013
Florida's flu season may last through February. Here are a few simple steps for staying well.
1.) The flu virus can live up to 12 hours on countertops and doorknobs. It's not a bad idea to wipe down hard surfaces at the home or office, including keyboards. Using disinfecting wipes is quick and convenient. Keeping a spraycan of Lysol handy is not a bad idea either. 2.) Advise family members to cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough. Avoid people who do not take this precaution because it is a sure way to pass along flu germs. 3.) If you do not have to shake hands, then don't. The contact allows for the virus to be transmitted if the person then rubs his or her eyes or mouth. 4.) Remember when Mom said to wash your hands? Well, she was right. Health experts say use soap and sing "Happy Birthday" twice to yourself to know that …
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
With an early start to the flu season, health officials say it still makes sense to get vaccinated.
Widespread flu activity has hit many U.S. states, including Florida. Local emergency rooms are reporting a spike in visit by patients with flu, including in Pinellas County, according to media reports. The American Red Cross is urging residents in Largo to get their shots. It takes up to two weeks to develop immunity after being vaccinated, so it makes sense to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Typically the flu season starts in Feburary, so the spike in cases this early may just be the beginning. Want the news delivered to your email box every morning? Subscribe to the Largo Patch newsletter. It's free and we don't give out your email address. Sign up here. Find out where you can receive a flu shot near your home. Know the signs and …
Here are signs and symptoms of the flu, and steps to take to keep from getting sick or pass along germs to someone else.
Fever, body aches, a sore throat. These are the classic signs of flu, right? Yes, though not everyone with flu gets a fever. Patients also can expect to be extremely tired, cough, have a runny or stuffy nose and vomit. Diarrhea is more common in children. What to do if you get the flu If someone in the household does come down with the flu, the Red Cross has this advice: For more information 1.) You should still get a flu shot The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting someone against flu viruses. Here are some local places to get your flu shot. 2.) Take steps to prevent the flu, including: Stay connected by signing up for our free email newsletter …
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Here's where to get an influenza vaccine, how to recognize symptoms and what to know about treatment if you get sick.
- LOCAL CONNECTIONS
- John Ness
-
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Flu season is coming early in parts of the United States: This time last year, flu cases were lower in Tampa Bay area than they are now, according to data on Google's Flu Trends. (Largo-specific data is not available on Flu Trends.) Overall in Florida activity is considered high now, while it was considered moderate at this time in 2011, according to Flu Trends. If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some places in Largo that offer the vaccine (besides your own doctor, of course): Publix Pharmacies Walgreens Pharmacies Pinellas Mid-County Health Center More locations According to this week's CDC Flu activity report, influenza levels are on the increase across the country. Five states – Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, …
