2018 Flu Season - 01/29/18

Like the rest of Oregon, Yamhill County is seeing significant circulation of the flu virus. Additionally, a second non-flu virus is circulating with very similar symptoms. Some important things to know about the flu: * Flu is a virus that causes respiratory illness. * Flu can cause mild to severe illness. Some of those who have the flu need hospital care. * Flu kills thousands of people each year. So far this year there have been over 30 child deaths across the U.S. including one in Yamhill County. * People who are at higher risk of severe illness or death include children, adults over 65, pregnant women and those who have chronic medical conditions or weak immune systems. The best way to protect against the flu is to get a flu vaccine. The typical peak flu season in Oregon is February so it is not too late to get vaccinated. You can get a flu vaccine at your health care provider's office, most pharmacies, or Yamhill County Public Health. Additional steps people can take to protect themselves and others from the flu are to: * Wash hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. * Cover coughs and sneezes. * Stay home when sick. * Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. * Keep surfaces that may have flu germs on them cleaned and disinfected. "When more people are vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread through the community." Dr. Koenig, Yamhill County Public Health Officer.