Health Department Declares Flu is Widespread in RI

The Rhode Island Department of Health has issued a Declaration of Widespread Flu Incidence Statewide, triggering regulations that requires all healthcare workers who haven’t been immunized to wear a surgical mask in all cases of direct patient contact.

“Flu is here in Rhode Island, and all signs indicate that this flu season is expected to be more severe than those in recent past,” said Dr. Michael Fine, director of the state health department. “We encourage all Rhode Islanders to protect themselves and those around them by being immunized against influenza. Our healthcare workers have an obligation to protect those they care for by getting immunized or wearing a mask as required by the Department of Health’s regulations.”

All people are advised to get a flu vaccine, which is the most effective way to curb the spread of the sickness, which is extremely dangerous for infants and the elderly.

Because infants younger than 6 cannot be immunized, it is especially important that they are surrounded by immunized family members.

It is especially important for healthcare workers, pregnant women, people over the age of 50, nursing or group home residents, and people with chronic conditions such as heart, lung or kidney disease, diabetes, asthma, anemia, blood disorders, or weakened immune systems to be immunized against flu. In particular, those who live with or care for those who are at high risk of flu-related complications should also be immunized.

Symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, head and body aches, fatigue and runny nose. Some people also have vomiting and diarrhea.

Immunizations are available throughout Rhode Island, including through your primary care provider, at flu vaccination clinics, and at local pharmacies.

For more information about influenza or to find a vaccination clinic near you, visit www.health.ri.gov/flu