STEPHENS CO., Okla_ Three more people
have died from the flu in Oklahoma, and one of
them is from Stephens
County.
Health
officials there would only say the victim was at least 19 years old. The death
brings this season's total statewide to 17. The report comes a day after two Duncan schools were shut
down because of high absenteeism due the flu and illness being a contributing
factor.
Cheryl Morrison
is an infection prevention specialist at Duncan Regional
Hospital. She said a
number of things contribute to the high flu infection rate: From people not
getting their flu shots, to not remembering steps they can take to avoid
getting the flu at all.
The message
posted at the entrance of Will Roger's Preschool
Center is becoming too common for Duncan schools. It was shut
down due to too many widespread illness related absences this flu season.
Morrison said it's likely many of them did not get a flu shot.
"36% of
the population has not received them, and that includes children," Morrison
said. "Most pediatricians emphasize the fact that the children do need their
influenza shots early."
Morrison said
parents can help stop the spread of the flu by being more aware.
"Good hand
washing is always paramount," Morrison said, "As well as disinfecting the
surfaces in your home: the high touch areas, your doorknob, sinks, faucets, and
any place where everybody's handling."
Now, schools
like will Rogers and Irving are in the process of soaking commonly played with
toys in bleach and hot water. They are mopping down areas and getting rid of
anything deemed contagious. Morrison said the kids and some staff not being
there for a few days is a plus.
"It's
going to give kids extra time at home to relax and recover," Morrison said. "A lot
of times, kids go to school when they're ill. Adults go to school when they're
ill."
Morrison said
all they're doing is spreading the virus around and getting others sick. The
state record of new flu-related hospitalizations is at 78 in the past week,
bringing the season total to now 722. She's not sure when it will be contained.
"Hopefully,
it will start to level off," Morrison said, "But from what I'm seeing statistically,
it's still kind of continuing on it's curve upward."
As we've heard
many doctors reiterate several times, the flu season is still not at its peak. That
is expected late February or early March. So, it's not too late to get your flu
shot.
The other two
flu deaths occurred in Oklahoma and Tulsa counties.
Health experts
say you can help keep from getting the flu or spreading it by washing your hands
frequently, coughing into your sleeve or a tissue, and if you are sick, stay at
home. Don't expose others to whatever you have.
To keep track of the flu in your area, click here.
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