Flu-like illnesses such as COVID-19, RSV, the flu and other viruses are increasing earlier than normal. Local experts are warning of an increase in viral illness around Audrain County as flu season …
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Flu-like illnesses such as COVID-19, RSV, the flu and other viruses are increasing earlier than normal. Local experts are warning of an increase in viral illness around Audrain County as flu season coincides with an RSV outbreak and colder weather causes more residents to gather indoors. Becky Wieberg, RN, WIC Coordinator and Clinical Services Manager at the Audrain County Health Department says the numbers for flu and COVID are up this year when compared to last year. "The 2021 flu numbers reported to the Audrain County Health Department for October 2021 were three cases and in November, 2021 there were 17 cases The flu numbers for October, 2022 were two cases while the November, 2022 flu cases went up to 33 cases." COVID cases for Audrain County for the last couple of months reported to the Audrain County Health Department are as follows. In October there were 95 cases (confirmed and probable together). In November there were 69 cases (confirmed and probable together).
Melissa Chastain, superintendent of the Mexico School District says "We are definitely seeing a rise in illnesses in students and staff and have experienced a slight drop in attendance last week. Bus drivers have been hit especially hard with sickness. We are welcoming the Christmas break so everyone can get well."
Influenza is transmitted from person to person primarily through droplets that are generated when infected persons speak, cough or sneeze. Transmission can also occur through direct or indirect contact with infectious respirator secretions for example by hands that deliver infectious material to eyes, nose or mouth.
Wieberg says there are some things we can do to decrease spread of influenza. "Good hand hygiene, use alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water is not available. Stay home when sick, be fever free for 24 hours before being in contact with others. Get vaccinated for influenza. We provide flue shots at the health department Monday through Wednesday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursday 8 a.m. to noon. Seek medical attention for illness. If you are sick with flu antiviral drugs can be used to treat your illness. Cover you nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Avoid people who are sick."
