The deadly flu season has killed 84 children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most of the children who have died from the flu this year have not been vaccinated with the flu shot.
Deadly Flu Season Has Killed 84 Children In The United States
"It's still not too late to get vaccinated, as we're starting to see some increase in Influenza A H1N1 and Influenza B activity," said Kristen Nordlund, a spokeswoman for the CDC "If you think you have flu or if you are at a high risk for complications from flu, it is important to seek care early."
It's highly recommended that children between 2 and 5 should get the flu shot, especially children who are born with various medical conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, and lung disease. Children may have a higher death toll from the flu in the United States, however, adults who are 65 years old and over, women who are pregnant, and people who suffer from developmental disorders should get the influenza shot.
What Is Influenza?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can infect the nose, throat, and lungs.
Similar to the common cold, the flu can cause symptoms including fever over 100.4 F, feeling the chills, cough, sore throat, headache, runny nose, nasal congestion, body aches, and feeling fatigue. Some children may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.
Other major health complications caused by the flu include pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, and signs of medical conditions getting worse, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart failure.
How To Avoid Getting Sick
The best way to avoid getting the flu is avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth, as this is how germs are spread. It's also important to frequently disinfect toys, TV remotes, and other objects that may be contaminated with germs.
People who are experiencing flu symptoms should schedule an appointment with their doctor, especially if there are some symptoms that keep lingering, even while taking Therfalu.
When Will It End?
We're not sure how much longer the flu season will last, however, it can be hard to predict.
"[The] flu is incredibly difficult to predict, and we don't know if we've hit the peak yet. In the past five seasons, influenza-like Illness has been elevated for between 11 and 20 weeks, and we're only at week 11 now, so we could potentially see several more weeks of activity," said CDC Director Anne Sschuchat.
