LMS Nurse: Influenza Notice
From the LMS Nurse
(The following was recently shared
with our staff members yesterday.)
Influenza is off to an early and strong start in the St. Louis
area and in our immediate community. The dramatic increase in cases
currently being diagnosed in our area is caused by a strain of Influenza A.
Because of the recent jump in cases, health officials are urging
individuals to get vaccinated if they have not already. The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that even if the vaccine does not
quite match a strain found, the vaccination can still provide some protection
by reducing the likelihood of severe outcomes such as hospitalization and
death. It is important to note that most
cases of the current strain of Influenza A affect children, ages 5 to 14
(including our student population).
Influenza is a contagious respiratory
infection characterized by muscle aches,
headache and fever. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women
and those with certain medical conditions are at higher risk of complications.
Signs and Symptoms of
the seasonal flu:
Fever
Cough
Sore Throat
Body Aches
Headache
|
Chills
Tiredness/Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
|
If you have any of the above symptoms, especially
a fever of 100° F or higher, it is recommended that you contact your medical
provider for evaluation. Antiviral medications may be indicated.
To Prevent the Spread of Influenza and
General Precautions to Stay Healthy:
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after
you cough, sneeze, or blow your nose.
Whenever you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth. If possible, use a tissue; throw the tissue in
the trash after you use it. If a tissue
is not available, cough into your sleeve, rather than your hand.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth as much as possible.
Maintain a distance of three (3) feet between you and other
people.
Avoid people who have a cold, and, if you catch a cold, avoid
contact with other people.
If you are sick (or think you may be sick), stay home from work
or school.
If possible, talk to healthcare providers by phone to avoid an
in-person office visit
To protect against this recent spike in cases, St. Louis County
will be offering two free flu clinics:
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
North County - John C. Murphy Health Center
6121 North Hanley Road in Berkeley (63134)
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
South County - Local Union Hall #110
4532 S. Lindbergh Blvd., in Sunset Hills (63127)
Located immediately north of the South County Health Center