Springfield-Greene County Health (SGCHD) has seen a sharp increase in influenza cases in the community. Over the last two weeks, Greene County flu cases have more than doubled. Additionally, more than half of cases this season have been in children under 14 years old.
If you or your child get sick
If you think you or your child have the flu, stay home and contact your doctor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying home until your symptoms are improving overall and at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without the use of fever-reducing medications).
Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
For a complete list of possible symptoms, along with emergency warning signs of complications, visit the CDC’s webpage on flu signs and symptoms. If you experience emergency warning signs, seek medical care immediately.
The flu can be especially dangerous for older adults, people with certain chronic medical conditions, pregnant people and children under 5 years old. Serious complications include pneumonia; inflammation of the heart, brain or muscle tissues; and respiratory or kidney failure.
Protect yourself and loved ones through vaccination
SGCHD continues to encourage the community to choose vaccination this flu season. It is not too late to be vaccinated. While vaccination may not prevent infection in all cases, it has been shown to reduce severity of illness and risk of hospitalization.
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. Flu vaccine is available in many locations throughout Springfield and the surrounding area. Contact your healthcare provider, local pharmacy or SGCHD to find a flu vaccine.
Community precautions
Community members can practice respiratory season etiquette to further prevent the spread of disease. These actions include:
- Staying home when sick
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
- Coughing and sneezing into your elbow to prevent contamination of your hands
- Wearing a well-fitted mask
Health care facilities may also ask patients and visitors to take additional precautions to prevent the spread of disease.
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Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].
Springfield-Greene County Health
“Helping all people live longer, healthier, happier lives.”
health.springfieldmo.gov | facebook.com/SGCHD | x.com/SGCHD
417-864-1658
227 E. Chestnut Expressway
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