Influenza activity increasing in Washington County

Flu activity is increasing in Washington County. Washington County Public Health has received several reports of influenza ?rapid test positive? cases, diagnosed in health care providers? offices. Although not all cases have been confirmed by the State Hygienic Lab, this is an indication that influenza activity is on the rise. In addition, Washington County Public Health has received reports of Washington County residents being treated for influenza both at home and in the hospital setting. As of Dec. 20, a total of 379 cases in Iowa have been confirmed by the State Hygienic Lab, with Strain A H3N2 virus predominating. Surveillance by Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) influenza sentinel sites and confirmatory testing by the State Hygienic Laboratory (SHL) shows that flu activity in Iowa continues to increase.

Testing for viral strains by State Hygienic Lab shows three flu viruses - A(H3N2), A(H1N1) and B - are currently circulating in Iowa with A(H3N2) predominating. In years when A(H3N2) viruses dominate, the flu season tends to be more severe with more hospitalizations and deaths.

All three of these flu strains are covered by this year?s vaccine - A(H3N2), A(H1N1) and B, although some of the A(H3N2) viruses may have mutated and may be only partially covered by the vaccine.

Iowans should be reminded that anti-viral medications are an important second line of defense to treat the flu. There are two anti-viral medications a doctor can prescribe which make flu illness milder, shorter, and reduce the risk of ending up in the hospital or dying from influenza. Antivirals work best if started within 48 hours or sooner of when flu symptoms begin.

While the flu vaccine is the best defense against getting influenza, it?s also important to take personal actions to help prevent the spread of illness. Remember the 3Cs: Cover your coughs and sneezes; clean your hands frequently; and contain germs by staying home when ill.

The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. The flu comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days. Influenza may cause severe illness or even death in people such as the very young or very old, or those who have underlying health conditions. (The ?stomach bug? which causes diarrhea and vomiting is not caused by the influenza virus but usually by norovirus; thus, the flu vaccine will not protect you against this illness.)

Influenza is not a reportable disease in Iowa, which means doctors are not required to notify IDPH each time a patient tests positive for influenza; however, IDPH conducts year-round influenza surveillance through the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network. This surveillance indicates what types of influenza viruses are circulating and how widespread influenza illness is.

Contact your health care provider or Washington County Public Health at www.washph.com to get more information on influenza immunizations.