CANTON -- Across New York State and St. Lawrence County, flu continues to be widespread. Overall, influenza activity has decreased, but remains relatively high for this time of year, according to the …
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CANTON -- Across New York State and St. Lawrence County, flu continues to be widespread.
Overall, influenza activity has decreased, but remains relatively high for this time of year, according to the St. Lawrence County Public Health Department.
Two hundred eighty-six confirmed cases were reported in St. Lawrence County during the month of March; so far for April, 77 cases have been reported. However, not everyone who is ill gets tested, so the numbers could be higher.
The county Public Health Department advises residents to take preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like the flu.
Flu viruses spread person to person through droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. A person might get the flu by touching a surface or an object that has flu virus on it and then touching his or her own mouth, nose, or possibly eyes. People infected with flu may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days after becoming sick. Therefore, you may spread flu to someone else before knowing you are sick and while you are sick.
By taking the following preventive actions, you can help avoid becoming ill and passing flu to others:
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you or your child is sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone.
• Limit contact with others while you are sick.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it away and wash your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent spreading germs.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.
Taking everyday preventive actions may help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory (nose, throat, and lungs) illnesses, like flu. However, the first and most important step to preventing flu is to get a flu vaccination every year. It is still not too late to get a flu shot.
Flu shots can be received from your primary care provider, most pharmacies, and the Public Health Department. The Public Health Departments holds immunization clinic on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment. Call to schedule an appointment at 315-386-2325.