Flu reaches epidemic levels

The flu has reached epidemic levels.

Pam Dvork, Kay County Health Department district nurse manager said there has been one flu death in Kay County and multiple hospitalizations.

“Diseases go in cycles," Dvork said. "I think we are seeing more and hearing more because traditional influenza affects the very young and the very old, and the complications from the influenza can greatly affect those groups,but for whatever the reason, and there are several theories we are seeing more in the age group of 19 to 64.”

Dvork said only about 40 percent of people in the United States get vaccinated.

And young adults are the least likely to get the vaccine.

Common symptoms of the flu are a fever between 100 and 103, cough, head congestion and runny nose.

Dvork said if you can manage those symptoms at home, do so.

If you run a fever for more than 24 hours she suggest visiting a doctor and getting the antiviral medicine.

What they are seeing and hearing is people who get pneumonia.

It’s not too late to get the flu shot.

“We have probably, it’s anybody’s guess but at least two more weeks of widespread flu activity, maybe longer going on," Dvork said. "S o, if you haven’t gotten the flu shot it is very important to go ahead and get the flu shot as soon as possible.”

Beside getting the flu shot, make sure to wash hands, and cough and sneeze into your sleeve.

The Health Department and the Ponca City School Board is asking that you stay home if you have the flu.

It’s suggested you stay home 24 hours after the flu is gone.

To get a a flu shot visit the Ponca City or Blackwell office of the Health Department from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.