The H1N1 flu is circulating and hitting people hard this year in Oregon, striking many people, including healthy children and young adults. The season has started earlier than normal and is expected to continue for several months. By the end of December 2013 hospitals had admitted 81 patients with complications from the flu.
The illness typically lasts 5 to 7 days and it is recommended to limit contact with others to prevent spreading the infection. Symptoms start 1 to 4 days after the virus enters the body, which means you may be able to pass the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. This is a contagious respiratory virus and you will need to stay home from class, work, and activities while you recover. It is important to stay hydrated and rest long enough to allow your body to mount its own immune response, kill the virus, and prevent complications.
The good news is the H1N1 strain is included in the current flu vaccine. It is not too late to protect yourself and others by getting a flu shot. Please contact your health care provider or local pharmacy and receive your flu vaccine today to stay healthy. For more information go to http://tinyurl.com/pzxcokh.