First flu death reported in Logan County

The Logan County Health Department announced today the first reported flu death this flu season in Logan County.  There were five newly reported flu-associated deaths in the state during the last week in Logan, Carter, Comanche, LeFlore and Tulsa counties, bringing the total deaths to 25 statewide this flu season.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health reports 244 new influenza-associated hospitalizations reported in the last week, bringing the total number of flu hospitalizations to 819 this flu season.

“Spread of influenza is occurring statewide, so if you haven’t already, now is the time to get your flu vaccination,” said Jay Smith, administrative director of the Logan County Health Department. “We still have flu vaccine available.” The Logan County Health Department provides Flu and Pneumonia vaccinations  Monday- Friday from 8-11:30 a.m. and 1-4:30 p.m.

An annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Vaccination is especially important for those persons at high risk from flu complications including people 50 years of age and older, young children, persons with chronic lung disease (such as asthma and COPD), diabetes (type 1 and 2), heart disease, neurologic conditions, other long-term health conditions, and pregnant women.

“Persons who have the flu can spread it to others even before they feel sick. The flu vaccine provides protection for the individual who receives it and reduces the chance of spreading the flu to persons who have not been vaccinated, including babies too young to receive a vaccination,” said Smith.

In addition to getting your flu shot, the Logan County Health Department reminds you to follow these prevention tips:

• Frequent hand washing using soap and water, or alcohol-based products such as hand gels when hands are not visibly soiled.
• Make “respiratory hygiene” a habit, including use of tissues to cover coughs and sneezes, then disposing of them and washing hands at once. When tissues are not readily available, use your sleeve, never your hands.
• Stay home from work, school, and other public places if you are ill.

Call the Logan County Health Department at (405) 282-3485 for more information about flu vaccine.  Visit www.health.ok.gov for Oklahoma flu updates posted every Thursday.