Jackson County Public Health Officials have declared that influenza activity level is high and circulating widely in Jackson County. Currently, Southern Oregon has the highest flu test positivity rate in Oregon.
Emergency department visits for influenza-like illness have increased in Jackson County. All age groups are being seen in the emergency department for influenza-like illness; there has been a sharp increase in the number of children 17 years and younger in the emergency departments for influenza-like illness.
It is important to note that the flu usually comes on suddenly. People who are sick with the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms: fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
People at higher risk of severe illness from influenza include people aged 65 years or older, children under the age of 5, pregnant people, and those with chronic medical conditions or weak immune systems.
Most people with the flu will have a mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. If you get sick with flu symptoms, in most cases, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care.
If you have flu symptoms and are in a higher-risk group or are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your healthcare provider. If you need help finding a medical provider, call 211.
People experiencing any of these warning signs should obtain medical care right away.
