Flu Season Is Here: What You Need to Know

Flu Season Is Here: What You Need to Know

This winter, we are seeing more cases of influenza in Mason County [1] and here at the Skokomish Wellness Center. Also called flu, this is a contagious viral illness that spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. Many people in our community are getting sick, so it is important to know the signs and how to stay healthy.

Common flu symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, body aches, and feeling very tired. Some people may also have stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you or your child has these symptoms, schedule a car visit for testing with the Wellness Center.

Many people get better with rest, fluids, and healthy food. Medicine that helps fight the virus is available if started early. Other medications can help with many of the symptoms of flu.

Prevention is the best protection. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Stay home when you are sick. Get a flu shot each year to protect our elders; vaccines are available at the clinic. By working together, we can keep our community healthy this season.

[1] Washington State Dept of Health. Respiratory Illness Data Dashboard. https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/diseases-and-chronic-conditions/communicable-disease-surveillance-data/respiratory-illness-data-dashboard#:~:text=These%20dashboards%20show%20trends%20in,while%20maintaining%20an%20individual%27s%20privacy.