Last week brought the first day of spring and hope to many that this particularly nasty flu season is now over.
Dr. Julie Lata "While the prevalence of flu is nowhere near where it was during its peak in January, the virus is still circulating and we are still regularly seeing multiple flu patients every day," said Dr. Julie Lata, an emergency medicine physician with McLaren Macomb. "This season's flu has tapered off and will continue to do so, but everyone should still continue to take precautions."
Preventative measures should include practicing good health habits and proper hygiene, such as covering all coughs, regularly washing hands and disinfecting surfaces that many around you come into contact with.
"We always advocate for an annual flu shot," Dr. Lata said. "Talk with your family physician if you have any questions about a vaccination and if you schedule one."
These preventative measures should extend through the spring season and into the summer, not only to protect yourself but also everyone around you. Groups at high risk of contracting flu include children younger than 5, adults older than 65, pregnant women and those living with chronic conditions (such as asthma, chronic lung disease, heart disease, blood disorders, weakened immune systems and diabetes).
Symptoms of flu can include fever, chills, cough, congestion and headaches, but the most common, telltale symptom for this season's influenza has been body aches.
To make an appointment with a McLaren Macomb family medicine physician, visit mclaren.org/macombappointments.