Stillwater NewsPress

Local News

January 10, 2013

Flu season is here and hitting Oklahoma

By Chase Rheam Stillwater NewsPress

STILLWATER, Okla. — The Oklahoma State Department of Health released new statistics Thursday that eight people have died and 345 people have been hospitalized from influenza since Sept. 30, 2012.

According to the release, the eight people who died were in Tulsa, Creek, Mayes, Muskogee, Pittsburg and Rogers counties.

Public Information Officer with the Payne County Health Department Priscilla Smith gave tips on what to do if you believe you have the flu. She said going to the doctor, who may give a prescription to help. Once you receive medication, Smith said you should stay home, if at all possible.

"Do not go out and share it with all your friends and neighbors," she said. "(Drink) more fluids, take aspirin for pain and fever and basically rest."

The release said  symptoms of influenza may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue.

Locally, Payne County has seen nine hospitalizations for influenza.

If one doesn't have the flu, there are steps that can be taken to prevent them from contracting it.

"The number one thing they can do is stay away from those infected," Smith said.

However, she admits that sometimes that may not be possible if your child has contracted the flu.

Hand washing and coughing and sneezing into the crook of your elbow or your shoulder can also be good preventative measures, she said.

Influenza shots are also available from the Payne County Health Department.

"There are two different kinds of flu vaccine that we have available here," she said. "We have injectable and injections will take anywhere from 10 to 14 days to give you full immunity."

The other method for those ages 2 to 49 is a nasal mist, which will give full immunity after three or four days.

Vaccines can range anywhere from free to $25, based on income. Those wishing to receive a shot should bring their insurance, Medicaid or Medicare cards and proof of identity.

"There's a registration process," Smith said. "At that time they will be counseled on what the cost will be if there is a cost."

The Center for Disease Control said they recommend that everyone ages six months or older should get a seasonal flu vaccine each year and that many children ages six months through eight years require two doses of influenza vaccine.

Smith said flu shots are low this week, but more will be in stock next week. She asks that those wanting the flu shot or nasal spray should call the Payne County Health Department. before coming.

For more information, call 372-8200.

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Local News
Stilly Studio
  • Savory_Stilly_Studio_05_01_13.jpg Savory crosses off goals with fifth album

    “I love the high energy stuff,” he said. “Even though it’s country, being able to rock it up, distorted guitars and just seeing the crowd, feeding off of that.”

    May 2, 2013 1 Photo

NewsPress Specials
AP Video
Raw: Trucker Bumps I-5 Bridge Before Collapse Raw: Texas Deputy Shot by Colo. Suspect Honored Major Detours Following Wash. Bridge Collapse American Held in Grisly Czech Murders Raw: Jersey Shore Reopens for Summer UK-bound Pakistan Plane Diverted, 2 Men Arrested Officials: Tsarnaev Friend Linked to Slaying Obama:Sexual Assault Threatens Trust in Military Bridge Collapse Survivor: 'Rough Day' Jersey Shore Open for Business Raw: Memorial Day Flags Placed at Arlington New Wheelchair Lift Promises More Access First Person: Mom Discusses Famous Tornado Photo Raw Video: Washington State Bridge Collapse Boy Scouts Approve Plan to Accept Gay Boys
Stocks