Flu Cases Confirmed In CA: Health Officials

CALIFORNIA — The flu has begun circulating in California, according to state health officials, with 12 cases confirmed during the most recent reporting week of Sept. 30 through Oct. 6. Ten of the cases were Type A while the remaining two were Type B. There have been no hospitalizations or deaths, but confirmation that flu is in California gives residents more urgency to get vaccinated.

Flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that spreads by coughing, sneezing or direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surface.

The flu season generally starts in October or November, peaks between December and February, and can continue until May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

These symptoms of the flu usually occur within one to four days after exposure, according to health officials:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Coughing
• Sore throat

Health officials are urging California residents to get vaccinated. The flu shot is available at health care providers, local health departments and pharmacies.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting the flu shot before the end of October, because it requires about two weeks to take effect.

Everyone older than six months can get a flu shot, which is especially recommended for those who are at risk: people with chronic conditions or who are being treated for something that may weaken the immune system; children younger than 5 (especially those under 2); those 65 and up as well as those in nursing homes and long-term care facilities; pregnant women (and women up to two weeks postpartum); American Indians and Alaska Natives; and caregivers.

What to do if you think you have the flu:

• Contact your health care provider
• Rest
• Drink fluids
• Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers and wash hands often
• Stay home whenever possible to avoid spreading the sickness
• Avoid crowded places (e.g., shopping malls, public transportation)
• Do not make unnecessary visits to places where others may be vulnerable (hospitals, retirement homes)

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Also See:

• Flu Diagnosis: 'No Fever, No Cough, And No Runny Nose'
• The 100 Best Places To Live In California Ranked 2018
• Please Don't Help My Kids

-This story was written by Patch editors Elizabeth Janney and Bea Karnes; Patch Staff Top photo via Shutterstock