[Press Release] : Boone County influenza reports on the rise

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Chris Coffman, Public Health Nurse Supervisor - (573) 874-7453
or (573) 874-7346, jccoffma at GoColumbiaMo.com or Deidre Wood, Public
Information Specialist - (573) 874-7632, dfwood at GoColumbiaMo.com 

Boone County influenza reports on the rise

COLUMBIA, MO (February 7, 2008) - The Columbia/Boone County Health
Department has seen an increase in reported influenza cases. To date,
the Health Department has had approximately 100 influenza cases
reported.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately
36,000 people die from the flu each year. It is important for citizens
to recognize symptoms of the flu and seek immediate healthcare if they
think they have the flu.

The common symptoms of the flu include a high fever, a headache,
fatigue and body aches, cough, a sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose,
diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms usually have a very quick and
immediate onset.

The Columbia/Boone County Health Department highly encourages citizens
to be vaccinated to help prevent the flu. The Health Department will
continue to offer the flu shot on a walk-in basis until the vaccine
supply is exhausted. The cost of the flu vaccination is $10 payable by
cash or check. Medicaid and Medicare are also accepted.

In addition to being vaccinated, the Health Department recommends other
practices that can reduce the chance of getting sick with the flu.
● Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
● Stay home from school or work when you are sick.
● Cover your mouth and nose when you are coughing or sneezing.
● Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer.

If you have questions, please call our clinic at (573) 874-7453 or
(573) 874-7356. More information on the flu is available at
www.familiesfightingflu.org or www.GoColumbiaMo.com.

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