Fewer South Lake Tahoe flu cases than normal; Precautions still need to be taken

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - Flu season is till here, and while cases across the country have resulted in few hospitalizations and deaths so far, people still need to take precautions.

“While it appears that influenza activity may have already peaked in El Dorado County, we are still receiving reports of flu cases. In fact, Marshall Medical Center reported nine confirmed cases of the flu this past week, a recent uptick in cases,” said El Dorado County Public Health Officer, Dr. Nancy Williams.

She said data from the California Department of Public Health show that influenza activity is still elevated in many California counties. An exception is the South Lake Tahoe area which has reported fewer cases of influenza than normal this year, possibly due to the weather’s impact on travel, social gatherings and snow days at area schools.

“Flu season typically runs into early spring each year, so it is still important to take precautions and to get your flu shot if you have not already done so,” advised Williams.

The El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency, Public Health Division is reminding residents that flu season is still here and simple preventive measures can help everyone stay well. In addition to the flu shot, these simple preventive measures can help stop the spread of influenza:

• Stay home when sick
• Avoid close contact with someone who is sick
• Cover a cough of sneeze with an elbow or tissue and throw the tissue in the trash
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

For more tips to prevent influenza at home, school and work, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website - https://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits/index.htm