NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (KNOP) – Flu cases are declining locally, but the illness is far from over. Healthcare professionals are reminding families that the virus continues to spread through the community and that basic prevention measures remain critical.
“The good news is that it’s down-trending,” said Dr. Melissa Moselle with Great Plains Health. “We had our peak about two or three weeks ago in December, and even though it’s down-trending, there are still cases circulating.”
Winter respiratory illnesses typically peak in December, with cases beginning to trail off into early spring. However, experts stress that the decline in cases does not mean the threat has disappeared.
PREVENTION STARTS AT HOME
Healthcare professionals say the first line of defense against the flu involves simple, everyday steps.
Hand-washing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. Doctors recommend reminding children and family members to wash their hands frequently, particularly before eating and after being in public spaces.
Staying home when sick is equally important, as it prevents the virus from spreading to others in schools, workplaces and the community.
“There are simple steps that we can do to help prevent the spread of illness and to keep our families healthy,” Moselle said.
SCHOOLS REQUIRE EXTRA VIGILANCE
Schools are a major breeding ground for respiratory viruses. Children spend their days in close proximity, which makes hygiene practices particularly important in school settings and at home.
“That’s why it’s ever so important to make sure we practice good hygiene in schools and at home, and then cleaning those high touch surfaces and reminding kids not to touch their mouth and nose all the time throughout the day,” Moselle said.
Parents and educators can model good hygiene habits by regularly washing hands and avoiding touching their faces.
KNOWING WHEN TO SEEK CARE
Not all flu symptoms require a doctor’s visit. However, certain warning signs warrant immediate medical attention.
Minor symptoms such as fever or cough can typically be managed at home with rest and fluids. But parents and caregivers should call a healthcare provider if symptoms progress to include:
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- High fevers that persist for more than a couple of days
- Signs of dehydration
- Severe pain
“There are some symptoms that might make you a little more concerned,” Moselle said. “Reasons to call your doctor would be if you progress to having difficulties breathing or wheezing, high fevers that aren’t going away after a couple of days, signs of dehydration or any serious pain.”
WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW
Healthcare professionals emphasize that it’s the simple habits that make the biggest difference in protecting against the flu.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating and after being in public
- Stay home when sick to prevent spreading illness to others
- Monitor your symptoms and know when to seek medical care
- Stay hydrated throughout the day, particularly during winter months
While flu cases may be on the decline, the illness and similar respiratory viruses remain in circulation. Taking these precautions now could prevent weeks of illness and keep your family and community healthy.
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