Flu epidemic upon us

WILMINGTON — If you’ve had the flu lately you’re not alone. According to local doctors the flu epidemic is upon us.

Wilmington Health Associates Dr. Jonathon Suita has been very busy the past three weeks.

He said, “Flu is running rampant in the Wilmington area as it is in North Carolina and across the United States right now.”

From January to February doctors in the area say they have seen almost 8 times the number of patients come in with the flu.

“We have had many people come into our office in the last few weeks with influenza. It’s affecting children, adults and the elderly,” Suita said.

Doctors say flu shots helped relieve some of the effects, but didn’t prevent the flu because it wasn’t a positive match with the current powerful strand.

“If you feel that someone is sick with influenza actually staying clear of them because it’s spread through droplets if they were to cough or sneeze on you,” Suita said.

Dr. Suita says if you do get sick, though, there’s relief. “If you feel like you have the flu seek medical treatment within 48 hours, because if you do have influenza that when the anti viral medications are most effective.”

The best way to stay healthy is prevention. Wash your hands throughout the day and try to avoid others who are sick. And if you’re sick don’t go to work or school, it’ll only hurt those around you.

Suita says you should pay close attention to your baby’s behavior. They may have the flu if they’re fussy, have a runny nose or gastro-intestinal problems.