This year the flu has hit hard, with this being the most widespread flu season ever recorded,  it has impacted many, reaching 49 states and Puerto Rico. This is the first time that all the states are being affected by the flu at once in nearly a decade and with a strand of the influenza so deadly.

This severe flu season has led to 14,676 hospitalizations and 63 deaths in children, with even more deaths in people over the age of 18 and the numbers just keep rising. 4,000 people are dying from the flu a week.  Doctors have also seen abnormally high hospitalization rates in people ages 50-64 due to the flu. The flu has been affecting people of all ages, sometimes causing them to miss a few days of work or school,  but in other cases putting lives in danger.

It is important for parents with children under the age of five to make sure if their child is sick that the illness is not getting worse, and to make sure they are getting enough liquids, and not becoming dehydrated. Doctors also say it is important to keep a look out for persistently high fevers in children, especially it they don’t subside or if they disappear for a short time only to come back again after the child appears to be getting better.If the child appears to be sleeping more than usual or appears dizzy or dazed and overall is just not acting like themselves, it is important to seek medical help.

The following signs need immediate medical care: having trouble breathing (shallow breaths or  pressure/pain in the chest), lips turning purple or blue, skin becoming clammy, and especially if a child refuses food or drink but has diarrhea or vomiting, as this raises the risk of dehydration.

People should also be aware that those with asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, a heart condition, or seizures are more susceptible to the flu and it is possible that the flu may worsen those conditions. People who come down with the flu must pay attention to their fever. If it is reoccuring that may mean that the fever has lead to pneumonia or a sepsis which a dangerous complication that occurs when the body is fighting off an infection and becomes overwhelmed. The signs of sepsis are fever or chills, extreme pain/discomfort, sweaty or pale skin, confusion, shortness of breath and a high heart rate.

Doctors recommend that people stay home if they think they have the flu and rest, drink plenty of water, and try to keep any pain and fever under control with an acetaminophen. Doctors say for most children if they have no other prior medical conditions the flu starts with a spike in temperature, sore throat, cough, and muscle aches. In younger smaller children they also might expect some nausea and vomiting. In most children the illness typically happens relatively quickly, the fever subsides in three to four days and the cough will disappear within two weeks.

Doctors recommend getting a flu shot if you have not gotten the flu yet in an attempt to prevent illness. Also, make sure not to share drinks or food with anyone and wash your hands numerous times throughout the day to stop the spread of  the disease.If you do have the flu, please stay home. If you must come to school, stay away from others and cover your mouth. The flu is an airborne virus and spreads easily. This season is shaping up to be particularly bad. Any precautions that you can take will help. Stay healthy Rocky!