Kent’s Puget Sound Fire provides influenza facts

Each winter Kent-based Puget Sound Fire responds to many 911 calls where people report “flu-like symptoms.”

Here are some flu facts, according to a Puget Sound Fire media release:

The influenza (flu) season typically peaks during the months of January and February. Poor weather generally keeps people indoors and closer together where it is easier for the flu to spread.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, the flu is a virus that infects the respiratory system (nose, throat, lungs, etc.). Unlike many other viral infections, the flu can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications in many people.

Each year, 5 to 20 percent of the U. S. population contracts the flu and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from seasonal flu-related complications. It is estimated that there are between 3,000 and 49,000 flu-associated deaths annually. Ninety percent of those deaths are in people 65 years of age or older.

According to a recent news report, 13 people have died in Washington state from the flu.

People at highest risk include:

Older people – especially those with medical conditions, such as heart disease

Very young children

Pregnant women

Prior illness such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or ear infections

The symptoms of influenza include:

Rapid onset

Fever or feeling feverish/chills (not everyone has a fever who contracts the flu)

Cough

Sore throat

Runny/stuffy nose

Muscle aches

Headaches

What can you do to prevent you or a family member from contracting this potentially deadly virus?

Get a flu vaccination which reduces the risk of the flu by up to 60%

Avoid anyone who potentially has the flu and stay away from others if you are infected

Wash your hands regularly

Disinfect commonly touched surfaces in the home (door knobs, phones, handles, etc.)

Cover your mouth and nose with a sleeve or tissue when coughing or sneezing

You can learn more about influenza and other health-related topics at cdc.gov.