The Flu Epidemic

The Flu, also known as influenza, is a common viral infection that can be fatal. According to Google, there are more than three million flu cases each year. The flu is notorious for mutating, so it is hard for vaccinations to cover the strands that mutate within the year the vaccination is released. In fact, according to National Geographic, the worst strand this year is H3N2, as the flu vaccination is only 25% effective for this strand. The flu vaccination, however, is still recommended by doctors because it covers the other strands of flu, which decreases an individual’s chance of getting the flu. The flu can include symptoms of: fever, muscle aches, coughs, congestion, headaches and fatigue. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a doctor or medical professional about your symptoms before the virus becomes fatal.

Statistics for Ohio & Montgomery County​

According to the CDC, the flu may have already reached its peak season between February 10th to the 17th as it is currently leveling off. The flu has resulted in over 1,800 hospitalizations in Ohio alone. Not only that, in Montgomery County, the flu claimed the first pediatric death of a 4-year old boy. Although fatalities resulting from the flu remain low in Montgomery County, it is unclear if hospitalizations will remain low. In fact, the Ohio Department of Education has reported that February hospitalizations range from 1,100 to 1,150 just this month.

Impact

In Ohio, the CDC reports that the flu is widespread and has high activity levels; so, it is advisable to remain aware of ways to prevent the flu. Firstly, get the flu shot. Although it does not cover all strands, it is important to be protected from the strands the vaccine can protect you from. Secondly, wash your hands. Keeping your hands clean is the most important step to avoid the flu because your hands spread germs. Thirdly, cover your mouth when coughing. It may seem minor, but a cough can spread droplets that are a leading cause in contracting the flu. Lastly, you should avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Works Cited

Cara, E. (2018, February 23). We Might Have Finally Reached Peak Flu. Retrieved from https://gizmodo.com/we-might-have-finally-reached-peak-flu-1823274842

What Makes This Flu Season So Bad. (2018, January 17). Retrieved from https://news.nationalgeographic.com/2018/01/flu-influenza-h3n2-virus-outbreak-vaccine-spd/#close

The Ohio Department of Health Ohio Flu Activity. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.odh.ohio.gov/en/seasflu/Ohio-Flu-Activity

What is the Flu - Google Search. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.google.com/search?q=what+is+the+flu&rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS513US515&oq=what+is+the+flu&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i65j35i39l2j0l2.2007j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

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