Flu season declared
Jackson County declared flu season in effect today after local hospitals reported a significant rise in cases over the last couple of weeks.
The declaration means masking restrictions at all Asante facilities. Employees who have not received the flu vaccination are required to wear masks in all patient areas, and visitors may be asked to wear masks if they have not been vaccinated. Visitors feeling ill or exhibiting signs of cold or flu are discouraged from visiting until their symptoms have resolved.
Health officials say it’s important to note the difference between cold and flu. Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses and can run from mild to severe, even deadly in some cases.
Flu symptoms
What you can do to prevent the spread of flu
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Get vaccinated. “Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to prevent the flu, and it is not too late to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Jim Shames, Health Officer for Jackson County Public Health. “Everyone six months and older should be vaccinated every year to prevent illness in themselves and others.”
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Stay at home and limit contact with others.
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw it away.
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Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available. Asante has placed stations with sanitizer and masks for our visitors’ convenience around their facilities.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
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Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them.
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Avoid getting coughed and sneezed on.
The flu vaccine is available through your health care providers, Jackson County Public Health and many pharmacies. To find a flu vaccine clinic, visit the Flu Vaccine Finder (www.flu.oregon.gov).
