Flu Worsens In Ohio, More Than 600 People Hospitalized

CLEVELAND — Flu season could spoil the holidays for many Ohioans. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) said influenza activity is spreading throughout the state and more than 600 people have been hospitalized with flu-related sicknesses this season.

If you haven't been vaccinated, now is the time to visit your doctor or pharmacy, the Ohio Department of Health said.

“It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to fully develop in the body,” said ODH Dr. Director Amy Acton. She recommended Ohioans get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Through week 51 of the flu season, which ended Dec. 21, there were 616 influenza-related hospitalizations in Ohio, the ODH said. In week 51 alone, there were more than 200 hospitalizations. No one has yet been killed by the flu in the state.

Much of the nation is experiencing the spread of the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate there have been 4.6 million cases of the flu nationwide. The CDC said as many as 2,100 people may have been killed by the flu already this season.

Ohio, like much of the nation, has been classified as a state where influenza is now "widespread."

“U.S. flu activity is elevated and increasing,” Dr. Acton said. “If you get sick with the flu, stay home to prevent spreading it to others.”

That means you may have to skip the New Year's Eve party. Your friends will thank you.

Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Besides getting a flu shot, Ohioans can follow simple steps to stymie the spread of influenza:

• Wash your hands often, using soap
• Try not to touch your face because germs spread easily through contact
• Get plenty of sleep
• If you're sick, stay home. Don't needlessly expose other people to your sickness

Flu vaccines are available through most doctor's offices, pharmacies and at some college campuses.