Backus reports first flu case of season
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NORWICH - The William W. Backus Hospital is reporting its first flu case, an unusually early start to the flu season.
Robin Heard, a registered nurse and Clinical Coordinator of Epidemiology at Backus, said the flu typically hits eastern Connecticut later in December and January. She said it is too soon to tell whether the early flu case means it will be a rough flu season.
Each year, 5-20 percent of the U.S. population gets the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control. More than 200,000 people end up hospitalized and 36,000 people die. Young children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to flu complications.
Heard added that it is not too late to get a flu shot. Vaccines are available at Backus Health Centers in Colchester, Montville and Gales Ferry. Call ahead to ensure supply.
Outside of a flu shot, she said the best way to prevent the flu is to:
- Wash your hands
- Maintain good sleep habits
- Exercise
- Eat well
- Stay away from crowds when you are feeling sick.
- If you are coughing and sneezing, it's better to use your arm to cover your mouth and nose rather than your hand, because you are less likely to transmit the germs that way.
To download "Cover Your Cough," Backus Hospital's brochure about respiratory etiquette, go to backushospital.org and click on "additional publications."