Influenza Cases Increasing in Winona

Posted By: Ann Merchlewitz On: 2022-12-09
Posted On: 2022-12-09

As you consider weekend plans before finals,  we recommend that you be cautious if you are out and about in the Winona community.  We are receiving reports of an increasing number of influenza cases in the area.   We want you to be healthy for your upcoming finals.

What can we do the prevent the spread of flu

  1. Get your flu vaccination.
  2. Watch for the following flu symptoms: fever, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  3. Use good hand hygiene, cover your cough and sneezes, stay home when you are sick.
  4. Consider wearing a mask when you are out and about in the Winona community.

Most people are sick with the flu for 3-5 days and get better on their own. People without high-risk conditions that aren’t very sick usually don’t need to seek medical help, but should:

  • Stay home. Avoid contact with other people as much as you can to keep from spreading your illness to others.
  • Rest and drink lots of fluids.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
  • Wash your hands often – with soap and water, or a hand sanitizer.
  • If necessary, take medicine to reduce fever.
  • Watch for symptoms of more serious illness:  difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or belly, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or repeated vomiting, flu-like symptoms that get better but then return with fever and worse cough, or severe dehydration.

Let’s be safe out there.

Ann Merchlewitz