Some Flu Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of the flu have been picking up dramatically since the beginning of winter 2019. Numerous states have reported widespread cases of the flu, despite the fact that no cases were reported at this time last year. Typically, the United States predicts the severity of the upcoming flu season by studying flu statistic of Australia, which experiences winter and flu season during America’s summer season. During Australia’s 2019 winter season, more Australians were diagnosed with the flue than the previous season – 168,337 cases versus 91,000 cases. Consequently, it is likely that the United States will see more cases of the flu this year than in 2018.
Ways to Protect Yourself and Others
- Avoid close contact with sick people;
- While experiencing flu symptoms, limit contact with others as much as possible to limit the spread of infection;
- Self-quarantine for at least 24 hours after experiencing a flu-induced fever, except to receive medical treatment or other necessities;
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue while coughing or sneezing;
- Wash your hands often with soap and water;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent spreading germs; and,
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
- CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against the spread of flu viruses.
