The 2017-2018 flu season is being seen as one of the most dangerous yet. With everyone on their guard, those that are even suspected of having the flu are cautioned to stay away from public activities, so that others don’t become infected. Governor Andrew Cuomo’s statement from January 23, 2018, instructed those who had still not received their flu shot to do so quickly, “With flu cases on the rise, New Yorkers should take steps to get vaccinated and protect themselves and their loved ones,” Governor Cuomo said. “I am directing the Department of Health to work with local providers to help protect our communities from this flu outbreak, and I urge all New Yorkers to visit local health centers and get vaccinated as soon as possible.”
Dr. W Andrew Wilson, Medical Director of Northern Dutchess Hospital Emergency Department, was able to give insight into this epidemic. Where there hasn’t been a change in how long the symptoms take to develop, which is typically 1-4 days after an individual comes in contact with the flu. Dr. Wilson did find a change in the patients they’ve seen,“What is unusual is the number of hospitalizations resulting from the flu. We’re seeing a percentage of patients – particularly elderly patients – who need to stay in the hospital to be treated for the flu.”
In regards to how they diagnose those that come into the Emergency Room as well as the protocols that have been implemented Wilson said, “We swab their nose and have our hospital laboratory do a rapid flu test to confirm. We have a new flu protocol. When people come to the ER, they all get masks, whether they have flu symptoms or a sprained ankle. We tell them, if they have the flu, the mask will stop them from spreading the virus. If they don’t, the mask will help protect them from getting the virus.”
This strain of the flu has seen a rapid spread across the country and is not expected to stop anytime soon. As of the week of February 3 the New York State Department of Health had released their Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report which included the Laboratory Reports of Influenza. Included in that data was every county in New York State, for Dutchess County from the weeks of January 20, January 27 and February 3rd, and totaling in 727 confirmed cases of the flu.
Dr. Wilson also advised those that are in close quarters that the vaccine is the post-effective way to protect yourself from the flu, “If someone has the flu, they should isolate themselves as much as possible and avoid coughing, as the flu is spread through saliva. If you live with someone with the flu, you can protect yourself by washing your hands often, or use hand sanitizer frequently. The flu can spread if you touch a surface that’s contaminated, then touch your nose or mouth. Wipe down surfaces often with bleach. Don’t share food or drinks with someone who might be ill or has been exposed to someone with the flu.”
From Marist College alone there have been 55 confirmed tests, and additional 130 diagnosed students and rising. Health Services partnered with the local Rite Aid across the street to offer more students flu shots and they saw a turnout of 90 students. Although those who have been affected such as sophomores and freshman who have roommates, that had been diagnosed with the flu were advised to return home if it was possible. Marist Housing has offered to relocate any students who are roommates of those who were diagnosed with the flu, to empty single rooms, to keep them away from the infected area. If students are to return to their homes/classes they must be flu-free for 24 hours without antibiotics.
Doctors are advising anyone and everyone that starts exhibiting symptoms to get treated as soon as possible, with the sights of influenza on the rise hospitals and all other clinics are on high alert for the flu. With the aggressive nature of the strain, those who exhibit symptoms are asked to act accordingly, “The health agency says the virus that’s circulating is one that’s caused more illnesses and put the biggest number of people in the hospital. Both the CDC and Dr. Stokes are urging people to get flu shots.”
With the staggering numbers and the rapid spread occurring so quickly, all residents are told to be on guard. Reminders to wash hands and dressing warmly to ensure the safest measures, additional information about the Simple Way to Keep the Flu Away can be found on the HealthQuest Website. It’s not too late to get your flu shot, and with the season continuing until May taking every precaution is in the residents best interest.
Ema Fernandez 