Wondering whether or not you need to seek medical care for your flu symptoms? The Centers for Disease Control offers guidelines here.
As expected, the spread of the H1N1 (swine) flu virus resulted in a greater percentage of people becoming ill this flu season.
The affiliated hospitals, physicians and staff of Samaritan Health Services have worked together and with county and state public health departments to help stem the spread of flu in our region and treat patients.
Meanwhile, the best strategy to avoid the flu, H1N1 or seasonal, is to follow these basic guidelines:
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and regularly, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This is how germs are spread.
- Get your seasonal flu shot and, if you are in a high-risk group as defined by the Centers for Disease Control, the H1N1 vaccination. For flu vaccination information, please call your primary care provider to schedule an appointment, a Samaritan Health Services urgent care clinic or your county public health department.
- If you are sick, stay home.
For more information, call the state flu hotline at (800) 978-3040, your local public health department or visit the Oregon Department of Human Services flu Web site at
www.flu.oregon.gov.
Visitor restrictions have been lifted at all five Samaritan Health Services hospitals and birthing centers. To find out more, click here.