GOT THE FLU?
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS: fever at or above 100°F, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills & fatigue. (May sometimes include diarrhea and vomiting).
The flu sure can make a person feel miserable, but most people can be safely cared for at home. If you do get infected, follow these helpful tips.
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Self Care Tips
· Drink plenty of fluids.
· Eat.
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Protect Others
· Get vaccinated every year.
· Stay home if you’re sick.
· Try to avoid close contact with other household members.
· Wash hands frequently in warm water for 15-20 seconds.
· Cover coughs and sneezes.
· Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth
· Throw used tissues away immediately and wash hands.
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· Rest.
· Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil as needed. (NEVER give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, particularly fever.)
· Gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat.
· Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
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WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL CARE
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Children
· Fast breathing or trouble breathing
· Blue color to the lips or skin
· Not drinking enough liquids
· Not waking up or not interacting
· Not wanting to be held
· Flu symptoms gets better but then return with fever and worse cough
· Fever with a rash
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Adults
· Difficulty breathing or short of breath
· Pain or pressure in chest or abdomen
· Sudden dizziness
· Confusion
· Severe vomiting
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*Most symptoms should begin to get better by the 5th day. If after five days the symptoms seem to be getting worse, consider seeking medical care. The greatest health risk is not the flu itself, but rather complications from the flu such as pneumonia or dehydration.
For information regarding the flu virus call:
Colorado Helpline – (877) 462-2911
Kremmling Memorial Hospital is a Level IV Trauma Center with physicians staffing the ER 24 hours a day, seven days a week. KMHD also offers flight for life helicopter service to several Front Range Hospitals
