Monday, December 24, 2012
Cook County Health Department reports finding of weekly flu surveillance.
Seasonal flu cases are increasing in Cook County, mirroring an increase nationally. Cook County Department of Public Health monitors flu activity through a weekly surveillance of reports from a sample of hospitals, private doctors’ offices and lab data of positive flu tests. For the week of Dec. 2-8 which are the latest figures available, there was a 3.38 percent increase. That included 78 specimens that tested positive, according to the health department’s website. Three cases of the flu where the patient required hospitalization were reported, the site stated. Additionally, three Cook County schools reported increased student absenteeism due to the flu. Flu season runs from October to May, peaking in February, health experts said. It is …
Friday, December 7, 2012
If you haven't had your flu vaccination yet this year, it's not too late. Cases of the flu are already rising above normal levels this year compared to last.
The holiday season is here and for most people it’s a very welcome time of year. Another season has also arrived that is not so welcome and has the ability to ruin most peoples’ holidays: the flu season. Officials are already saying the flu season is hitting hard in some parts of the country and people – particularly those most at risk – are being cautioned to get a flu shot if they haven’t already. December 2-8 is set aside as National Influenza Vaccination Week to highlight the importance of getting the flu vaccination. The South Central and Southeast regions of the country have reported the majority of cases and are reporting flu cases above the normal baselines, according to the Centers for Disease and Prevention. But, in Region 5, …
Friday, November 2, 2012
The Cook County Department of Public Health is reminding residents that children starting at six months and up should get the flu shot to guard against the three most common influenza viruses this season.
Now is the time to get your flu vaccine to guard against the three most common influenza viruses this season, according to the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH). The flu shot can be given to children as young as six months, in addition to adults. Though prevalence is low right now, officials say getting it sooner than later will help you to be protected. “Although flu activity is low right now at the start of the season, activity is expected to increase and residents need to protect themselves by getting a flu shot,” said CCDPH interim chief operating officer Sandra Martell, RN, DNP. “Young children, pregnant women, individuals with a weakened immune system and people aged 65 years and older are at a higher risk for …
