Health Watch: Combating The Flu
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The flu season is picking up momentum. With three deaths already in our area, new warnings are going out guarding against the flu.
Influenza is a very contagious virus, and so once it's in a community it tends to spread. There are hundreds of cases, many around the Philadelphia area, and recently three deaths in Montgomery County. Health officials are issuing renewed warnings.
Flu shots are the best prevention, but not enough people are getting them, according to health officials. The three people who died from flu, in Montgomery County had not been vaccinated.
"It can just make you very, very sick, and the main reason people die are related to pulmonary problems, lung problems," said Dr. Anna Headly, an Internal Medicine Specialist at Cooper University Hospital.
Flu is usually most dangerous and deadly for people who have underlying health problems. But two of the three people who died in Montgomery County, including a 2-year-old boy, were healthy.
"It's not completely known how the flu turns deadly, and it also not known why some people get such a severe case of the flu compared to other people," said Dr. Headly.
She says most people easily recover from the flu with rest and fluids.
But how do you know if you have the flu? Symptoms can be similar to a common cold.
"Most of the people who have it will say that they feel like they've been run over by a truck, so you feel totally wiped out," said Dr. Headly.
Doctors say it's not too late to get a flu shot. In addition to being vaccinated, the best way to avoid getting the flu is to wash your hand regularly.
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RELATED LINK:
CBS-3 Seasonal Flu Resource Guide
Reported by Stephanie Stahl, CBS 3
