 |
|
|
The Flu in Utah March 17, 2018, 3:26 pmTolman-Hill says that the current flu season (2017-2018) in the U.S., is showing the highest "ILI" rates since 2009-2010, during the H1N1 epidemic. But Influenza-Like Illness (ILI), is reported by healthcare providers to the "Outpatient Influenza-Like Illness Surveillance Network (ILINET)" and to the CDC, and seems to have hit Utah less severely than other states. An Influenza-Like Illness is defined as a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit with cough and/or sore throat according to information provided by the Utah County Department of Health. Tolman-Hill says that it's important to remember that "ILI surveillance are not lab-confirmed cases of influenza," and that "there is definitely a distinction to make there." The reports show that Utah has actually been having "low" ILI activity for the week ending January 20, 2018. However, for much of the country, according to CDC reports, the numbers are much higher. Tolman says that even though Utah has been hit somewhat less severely than other states, that can certainly change in the coming weeks. She states, "In Utah County we have had 105 hospitalized cases and 329 reports of ILI activity so far [according to the most recent reporting]." The Utah County Department of Health suggests the following as the best ways to avoid the flu: • Get the flu shot. Even in years when not a great match, it provides protection and can provide protection for future flu strains. • Wash hands (practice good health habits). • Stay home from work, school, and social functions when sick. • Follow up with your healthcare provider as needed. Tolman-Hill recommends the forgoing strategies to keep healthy this flu season and says, "It's not too late to get the flu shot; we (Utah Department of Health locations) have them available." The community news source for Eagle Mountain Utah, Saratoga Springs Utah, Lehi Utah, American Fork Utah, Highland Utah, Alpine Utah, and The Cedar Valley, including Cedar Fort Utah and Fairfield Utah. Copyright 2024 The Crossroads Journal LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
|
