Mahaska Health Partnership Cautions about Increased Flu Activity

Mahaska Health Partnership (photo - D.Hubbard)

MAHASKA COUNTY – Mahaska Health Partnership Public Health reports increased flu activity.

“The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) conducts statewide monitoring of flu cases and they have noticed an increase after a slow start to the season,” MHP Public Health Coordinator Patty Malloy, RN, said.

According to Malloy, the flu season usually peaks in February and can last as late as May. “Flu is spread through contact with an infected person’s germs. The best thing people can do is stay home if they are sick to avoid infecting others.”

IDPH reports that the flu is among the top 10 causes of death in Iowa. It is a respiratory illness caused by viruses and spreads easily from person to person. The flu comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. “The flu typically lasts two to seven days and may cause severe illness or complications in people such as the very young or very old, or those who have underlying health conditions,” Malloy stressed.

IDPH recommends all Iowans age 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine. Getting vaccinated now will offer protection throughout the flu season, and will also help keep those traveling over Spring Break healthy as they visit areas where flu levels may be higher.

Flu vaccinations are available at MHP Public Health as well as Specialty Services. For more information about medical providers available at MHP, visit mahaskahealth.org.