The Indiana State Department of Health reported the state’s first influenza-related death of the 2018-2019 flu season Friday.
Indiana State Health Commissioner Kris Box says flu-related deaths aren’t typically seen this early in the season, but influenza activity is beginning to increase.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get a flu vaccine each year.
It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against the flu to develop in the body, so the CDC recommends an early vaccination. However, the vaccine can be administered any time during the flu season, which typically lasts between October and May.
Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:
- Fever of 100° Fahrenheit or greater
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
The CDC recommends the “Three C’s” when helping prevent the spread of the flu and other infectious diseases:
- Clean: Properly wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water.
- Cover: Cover your cough or sneeze into your arm or a disposable tissue.
- Contain: Stay home from school or work when your are sick to keep your germs from spreading.
