Rowan County Public Health reminds residents to take precautions amid rising flu activity
Published 12:05 am Friday, February 7, 2025
- Get vaccinated: It is not too late to receive a flu or COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccination is the best way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death. Those at higher risk include individuals 65 and older, young children, pregnant women and individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, avoid touching your face and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Stay home when sick: If you experience flu-like symptoms, stay home except to seek medical care or testing. Take precautions within your household by isolating yourself from others, using a separate bathroom if possible, and not sharing personal items.
- Seek early treatment: If you begin to feel sick, contact your healthcare provider to determine if an antiviral treatment is needed. Early treatment is particularly important for individuals at high risk of complications.
About the flu
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the flu is a contagious respiratory virus that can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.
Older and younger people, as well as those with certain health conditions and compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for serious flu complications.
From October through May, NCDHHS’ Division of Public Health provides weekly updates on the spread of respiratory diseases, including influenza, in North Carolina.
Get vaccinated
“The first and most important step to protect yourself and your family from the flu is to get a flu vaccine each year,” the NCDHHS site says. “You can get your flu and updated COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, if you’d like.
“Seasonal flu vaccines are safe and effective. During the 2019-2020 flu season, flu vaccines prevented an estimated 7.5 million illnesses, 105,000 hospitalizations, and 63,000 deaths across the country.”
Visit vaccinefinder.org to find a convenient place to get a flu vaccine near you.
Symptoms
Flu symptoms can include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle pain or body aches
- Headache
Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.
Since flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, it may be hard to tell which virus you have. Testing can help confirm a diagnosis.
