Phelps/Maries County Health Dept. reports flu associated death in pediatric patient

The Phelps/Maries County Health Department reports there has been a flu associated death in a pediatric patient.   While flu was not the primary cause of death it was a contributing factor.  This is why the health department is reminding people of precautions they can take during flu season. 

 More people are seeing their doctors for symptoms of influenza now than at any other time during this flu season, and people are at greater risk for catching the flu right now.  Since mid-February Phelps County has had 115 laboratory confirmed flu cases reported. 

Since mid-February there has been a notable increase in the number of people visiting a doctor with influenza-like illness and in the number of specimens testing positive for influenza, as reported by Jodi Waltman, Phelps/Maries County Health Department Administrator. 

Flu season usually runs into May. The best way to protect yourself against the flu is to get a flu shot. Shots are available at pharmacies and the local health departments.   At the Phelps/Maries County Health Department flu shots are offered on a walk-in basis from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

Health officials recommend that those who may have the flu and are at high risk from complications, such as people with underlying medical conditions and the elderly, should see their doctor. CDC recommends that people who are at high risk of complications be treated with antiviral medicines if they develop influenza.

If you are already sick, take these precautions to prevent spreading the flu to others:

● cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
● stay at home when ill
● wash your hands frequently

Typical symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and often extreme fatigue.

For more information, please  contact the Phelps/Maries County Health Departemtn at 573-458-60-10 or visit their offices at 200 North Main St., Suite G-51, Rolla, MO   65401.