Flu Cases Rising in New Mexico
You’re seeing the story more and more in the national news, and flu activity is increasing in New Mexico. Over the past few weeks, more and more of us are coming down with the flu.
As of January 3rd, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), FluView report showed 46 US states were experiencing "high" activity, according to the report. New Mexico is one of them.
The New Mexico Department of Health last week reported the death of 5 New Mexico residents from the flu as well as an increase in flu activity throughout the state.
The news comes on the heels of at least 26 children dying from complications of the flu nationwide during the 2014-2015 influenza season, and all of it leads to a message taking growing urgency in our state: If you haven’t gotten your flu vaccination yet, you should.
The New Mexico Department of Health and the CDC recommend flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. While some of the viruses spreading this season are different from what is in the vaccine, a single vaccination can still provide protection and might reduce the chances in extreme circumstance as hospitalization - even death.
As long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated. Flu complications can be worse for the very young, the very old and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Symptoms include:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
In addition to getting the seasonal flu vaccine if you have not already gotten vaccinated, you can take everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent others from getting sick.
Also, if you have a loved one who is at high risk of flu complications and they develop flu symptoms, encourage them to see a doctor for possible treatment with influenza antiviral drugs. The state health department and the CDC recommends people who are at high risk for serious flu complications who get the flu this season be treated with influenza antiviral drugs as quickly as possible. People who are not at high risk for serious flu complications who get the flu may also be treated with influenza antiviral drugs, especially if treatment can begin within 48 hours.
To get a flu vaccine, contact your medical provider or pharmacist. The Department offers flu vaccinations for people without insurance or who are otherwise not able to get immunized. Those with Medicaid or other insurance who come to Public Health Offices are asked to present their insurance card.
For more information about flu vaccination clinics throughout New Mexico, you can call the Immunization Hotline toll free at 1-800-232-4636.
Media Contact
We would be happy to provide additional information about this press release. Simply contact David Morgan at 575-528-5197 (Office) or 575-649-0754 (Mobile) with your questions.
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