The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recently shared a news release expressing concern and preventative recommendations for current flu activity in the state. According to DOH, flu cases are multiplying and flu-related hospitalizations are at the highest rates seen in 10 years.
Children under five years old and people who are 65 or older, pregnant, immunocompromised or have chronic health conditions are at higher risk of severe flu illness.
DOH is encouraging the following preventative actions to slow the spread of the illness:
- Get vaccinated. Vaccination is your best defense against the flu and COVID-19.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer when soap is not available and hands are not visibly soiled.
- Consider wearing a mask in crowded settings.
- If you are sneezing or coughing, wear a mask or use the crook of your arm or a tissue to avoid getting germs onto your hands or spreading virus in the air.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- If you feel sick, stay home.
In addition to the flu, other respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19 and RSV, are circulating and placing additional strain on the healthcare system. DOH strongly urges close practice of the above recommendations to protect you, your family and your community from severe illness this winter.
For more information about flu season, visit KnockOutFlu.org. Additional data and guidance for preventing COVID-19 and RSV is also available.