McHenry Co. Health: Flu Cases On The Rise

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — The flu has been hitting local residents hard in recent weeks.

In a press release sent out last week, the McHenry County Department of Health reported a continuous increase from week to week of influenza in McHenry County. Health officials are urging people to take action to prevent the spread of the virus.

High risk groups include: people who are 65 years old and older, pregnant women, young children who are under the age of 5 years old, and people with pre-existing conditions.

Here are there ways people can prevent contracting the flu:

• Get vaccinated. Everyone 6-months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine
• Stop the spread by staying home when sick and avoiding contact with others who are ill
• Cover your cough and wash your hands frequently

If you do get sick you should contact your primary care provider about early treatment with antivirals, which can be used to treat influenza illness by making it milder and shortening the time you are ill, according to a news release from the health department.

McHenry County locations offering the influence vaccine can be found by visiting this website.