Health and Community Services Urges Public Action to Prevent Spread of Influenza

— from San Juan County Communications —

Flu cases are on the rise in San Juan County, although we are not currently seeing the epidemic levels reported in other parts of Washington state.

San Juan County Health & Community Services urge flu vaccine as the first line of defense against influenza. Flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months of age and up. Receiving a flu immunization is especially important for people who are at increased risk for severe complications from the flu, and for health care providers and others who are in close contact with people who may have influenza. Certain people are at high risk of serious flu-related complications – including young children, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.

Dr. Frank James, Health Officer for San Juan County, said, “While San Juan County is not yet experiencing the epidemic levels of flu we are seeing in the rest of the state, we can reasonably expect our county to begin seeing an increase in flu cases. The best form of protection is to receive a flu vaccine. Additionally, you can prevent the spread of flu by washing your hands, covering your cough, and staying home if you are sick.”

San Juan County Health & Community Services is working with area providers, hospitals, schools and long term care facilities to monitor week flu cases and hospitalizations, and to anticipate appropriate response measures are in place if flu cases continue to climb.

While the past few weeks have shown a sharp increase in statewide flu cases, the numbers are fairly normal for this time of year.

For more information on how to prevent flu, recognize the signs and symptoms of flu, or how to seek appropriate treatment, please contact our department at
360-378-4474 or https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/index.htm