Flu season not over

April 06--ASHEBORO -- Another round of the flu could be running its course in North Carolina.

"Influenza-like illness (ILI) increased slightly during week 13," according to Anita Valiani, an influenza epidemiologist with the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. Week 13 is the week ending on March 31.

"We're seeing a resurgence now, mostly influenza B," said Susan Hayes, director of the Randolph County Health Department. "The flu peaked from early- to mid-February. Now we're into another peak, but that's not uncommon."

North Carolina flu statistics are based on viral testing at the state lab as well as hospital labs. During Week 13, there were a total of 1,568 samples tested with 319 testing positive for influenza. Of those, 204 tested for influenza B and 115 for one of the forms of influenza A.

"The results are improved from February," Hayes said, but there remained a handful of deaths attributed to the flu. North Carolina reports 348 deaths for the season.

Symptoms

Symptoms of either strain of the flu are similar and can include the following:

* Fever of 100 degrees or higher, or feeling feverish.

* A cough or sore throat.

* A runny or stuffy nose.

* Headaches and/or body aches.

* Chills.

* Fatigue.

* Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea (mainly in children).

"You need to stay vigilant and be good about preventives," said Hayes.

Preventive measures

* Vaccination with the flu vaccine is the best protection.

* Wash your hands.

* Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

* If you are sick, stay home from work and keep your kids home from school if they are sick so it does not spread.

* If you do become sick with the flu, there are antiviral medications you can speak about with your doctor.

"If you have the flu, take antivirals," Hayes urged. "They will really help."

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