This flu season is notably harsh and even deadly in some circumstances. According to North Carolina Health Officials, as of January 25, there have been 21 flu deaths in our state and 67 total for the nation. Even though we benefit from more advancements in medicine and technology than any other era, the flu still runs its course through our communities, schools, churches, and work places. Due to the severity of this flu season, Partners in Health and Wholeness would like to highlight how crucial it is for us to take serious precautions in preventing the flu and the subsequent actions to take if one has the flu.
While all of us are at risk for the flu, many of the high-risk groups for the year’s flu season like children, pregnant women, and elders, join us each week for church, making it important that we take this flu season seriously.
Unlike the common cold, symptoms of the flu hit swiftly, in a matter of hours. Most do not see the gradual worsening of symptoms that one does with a cold or other infections. The symptoms include fatigue, fever, feverish chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, and headaches. Children can also have symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. If left untreated, the flue can lead to more complications like pneumonia.
It is not too late to get the flu vaccination-which can prevent or at least lessen the severity of the flu. We can also check on any friends and neighbors that might live alone if we know they are sick, particularly our older or differently-abled friends.
Below are some helpful resources on this year’s flu in regards to prevention and action:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
