The rate of “influenza-like illnesses” has been on a slow rise so far this season, according to the N.C. Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with more than 100 confirmed cases in the state in the first week of December, which is the average rate for the past several years.
This comes at a time when 23 states are reporting “widespread” flu activity and all 50 U.S. states are affected in some way. Last year at this time, the CDC reported, just three states had “widespread” illnesses.
Mike Zelek, Chatham’s Division Director for Health Promotion and Policy, said Chatham residents need to be aware and take precautions against the sickness.
“While we have become accustomed to the flu season coming each year, the flu often causes severe symptoms, so it must be taken seriously and everyone should take precautions to stay healthy and avoid spreading it,” Zelek said.
The “flu season,” as it is deemed, starts in late September and ends in mid-May annually. During the 2018-2018 flu season, the N.C. Department of Health and Social Services reported, 203 North Carolinians died an “influenza-related death,” with the vast majority being 65 years or older. Five people have already died from flu-related illnesses in the state this season.
Each year, in response, the Chatham County Health Department works to raise awareness of the virus, “emphasizing the importance of prevention” with a focus on the “importance of getting a flu shot.”
“The keys are to get a flu shot, practice good hygiene, including washing your hands and covering your cough, stay home from work or school if you are sick and go to the doctor if your symptoms worsen,” Zelek said.
The department recommends that “everyone six months of age and older get a flu vaccine,” especially those who are “high-risk” — particularly infants, people over 65 years old and individuals with chronic medical conditions. The department also urges those who are a parent, caregiver or family member of someone who is high-risk to also get vaccinated to help prevent the spread of the virus.
While the flu shot may be the best prevention for most people, experts say some people should not get the shot. Those who have had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine, Guillain-Barré Syndrome or are not feeling well should consult with a physician before considering the flu shot.
The county’s public health department has an Epidemiological (Epi) team that meets monthly to review public health issues, including influenza, and develop strategies to prevent and respond to them. An Epi team typically includes multidisciplinary public health professionals and staff with skills ranging from specialty areas such as epidemiology, environmental health, health preparedness, nursing and health education.
Zelek said flu season normally peaks in early February, meaning people should be getting shots as soon as possible.
“So if you have not yet gotten your flu shot, there is still time,” he said. “However, it does take a couple of weeks to be effective, so now is the time to get it.”
There are many local options available to access a flu shot, including pharmacies and drug stores. The health department also offers shots at its Siler City clinic. Most insurance is accepted at the clinic, and the cost without insurance is $40 for the shot. Those interested should call 919-742-5641 to schedule an appointment.
To help homebound residents, the health department also offers home visits to administer the vaccine. Zelek suggests those falling in that category to contact Bonnie Dukeman at the Chatham County Public Health Department at 919-742-5641.
For additional information, visit chathamnc.org/flu or flu.ncdhhs.gov.
Reporter Casey Mann can be reached at CaseyMann@Chathamnr.com.