Denton County reports eighth flu death

Denton County Public Health (DCPH) is reporting the eighth influenza-associated death, an adult in Denton County, for the 2017-2018 flu season.

“Flu season is not over. We continue to see very high flu activity and have noticed an increasing amount of influenza B. It is important for residents to still receive a flu shot, wash their hands, and stay home if they are sick,” states Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist. “Even if you have already contracted one flu strain this season, the vaccine is still recommended for protection against others.”

The flu continues to be a serious health threat, and as the percent of positive Flu B tests rises, DCPH still recommends proactive steps to protect the health of our communities:

1. Get vaccinated. The best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu is to get an annual flu shot, and the flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.

2. Remember that antiviral medications are a second-line defense against the flu. If you are experiencing fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, muscle aches and headaches, visit your doctor immediately, and take antivirals if prescribed. These remedies can help you recover quicker, and can potentially prevent you from being hospitalized with flu complications.

3. Take everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs. Cover your cough and sneeze, avoid people experiencing flu symptoms, stay home when you feel sick and wash your hands often. These steps will help prevent respiratory viruses, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus.

Weekly Denton County flu surveillance reports and additional information can be found at www.DentonCounty.com/flu.  Visit www.cdc.gov/flu for details about symptoms, treatment, and prevention, and search www.vaccinefinder.org to find the nearest vaccine in your neighborhood.