First cases of flu reported in Burke

By: Sharon McBrayer | Morganton News Herald
Published: December 23, 2008

Morganton --

The flu has hit Burke County, say health officials.
"We've had a few cases at both hospitals including one case this weekend in the Grace Emergency Department," said Lisa Mangum, infection control director for Blue Ridge HealthCare. "So it's here. We have not had any hospitalizations yet because of the flu."
Mangum gets reports from across the state of where the flu is popping up. Chapel Hill and Charlotte both had their first positive cases show up in the last few days, she said.
"Once you start seeing positive cases, it's only a matter of time with January and February being the worst months," Mangum said.
Scott Gallagher, practice administrator for Burke Primary Care, said the practice has had a few positive cases of flu. And that's unusual, he said. Typically, by this time the office would be seeing 20 cases a day, Gallagher said.
Even though the flu has reared its ugly head in the county doesn't mean it's too late to get vaccinated against the virus.
"A lot of people think that if they haven't gotten the flu shot by December that it's too late," Mangum said. "It's recommended you get the flu shot through March and the first part of April."
The vaccination, unlike some years, appears to be plentiful. A record number of flu vaccine doses should be available this year, say state health officials.
According to state health officials, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has expanded its recommendations regarding flu vaccine.
The CDC now advises all children from 6 months through 18 years of age be vaccinated against the flu. Adults 50 and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions like asthma, household contacts of people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women and health care workers also are encouraged to get vaccinated.
Influenza vaccine contains protection against three strains of flu virus.
"This year's flu vaccine is a good match to the strains of flu virus circulating in the country so far," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Jeff Engel.
The Burke County Health Department still has plenty of the vaccine, said Director David Rust. Folks also can get the vaccine at their doctor's office.
Flu symptoms begin suddenly and may include fever, severe headache, body aches, sore throat and cough.
One of the best safeguards from contracting the flu is washing your hands, said Mangum.
Other preventative measures include:
• Covering your coughs and sneezes.
• Use tissues and throw them away after each use.
• If you have flu symptoms, stay home.

First cases of flu reported in Burke

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