STATEWIDE (WGME) -- The Maine CDC says flu outbreaks here in Maine could last for weeks to come. Their message is to be prepared, and the first step is to recognize the symptoms.
Signs and symptoms:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (very tired)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
There are many ways in which people contract the flu virus - but three of them stand out. Experts say being near somebody who is sick, drinking from the same cup, or sharing utensils, and touching a germy surface then putting your hands on your face, especially in the mouth and eye region are some of the top ways people contract the flu.
Recommendations for preventing the flu:
- Wash your hands
- Always cover your cough
- Get Vaccinated: Maine CDC recommends vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, especially for those people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza. For questions about vaccination, you can contact the Maine Immunization Program at 800-867-4775 or through immunizeme@maine.gov. To find locations where the vaccine is available, call 211 or visit www.211maine.org or www.flu.gov
What to do if you have the flu (from Maine CDC):
Stay home if you are sick (until you are fever-free for a full 24 hours without taking fever-reducing medicine).
Although most people can stay home to recover without seeing a health care provider, it is possible for healthy people to develop severe illness from the flu. Anyone with the flu should seek medical attention for:
- Dehydration
- Trouble breathing
- Getting better, then suddenly getting a lot worse
- Any major change in condition
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