Alleghany braces for influenza

While Alleghany County has seen a number of cases of influenza already this year, it is still unclear how the local numbers compare to those that have been recorded statewide.

"We have had lab diagnosed cases of the flu here, but it is hard to say how we compare to other areas of the state," said Alleghany County Health Department Nursing Supervisor Eva Wooten. "It doesn't seem that I have heard the number of reports that we have heard of in other counties, but those counties are larger. It does seem to just be beginning in this county."

Outbreaks of the flu, which is caused by a virus and thus can't be treated by antibiotics, typically don't begin until January or February. This year, the spread of the illness started as early as late November in some states and started in earnest here in recent weeks. "The first diagnosed case that I am aware of was two weeks ago and the numbers have increased since then," said Wooten.

North Carolina has been added to the CDC's list of states with widespread flu activity, meaning that there are outbreaks of influenza or increases in influenza-like illnesses and lab-confirmed influenza samples in at least half the state. Twenty-four states are now on that list.

Highlighting the dangers of the illness, a three-year-old boy from neighboring Wilkes County died late last week from a secondary meningitis infection after contracting the flu, the third death of a youngster reported in the state this year.

With many news agencies reporting on the early rise of the illness and the short supplies of vaccine, there is a sense of urgency here and elsewhere for those trying to get vaccinated against the illness. Flu symptoms begin suddenly and may include fever, severe headache, body aches, sore throat and cough. Flu can make a person more susceptible to pneumonia — an illness that puts a severe strain on the heart and lungs, which can be especially dangerous to people who already suffer from heart and lung disease. Vaccinations are also available to guard against pneumonia.

Those who develop flu-like symptoms should drink fluids, rest and stay home to avoid spreading the infection. Flu-sufferers may also take over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, but aspirin should be avoided because taking it for some forms of flu has been associated with Reye's Syndrome, a serious disease in children that can occur following a viral illness and that causes swelling of the brain.

Vaccine supplies have been dwindling across the nation in the past few weeks as result of heightened demand and the earlier than normal reports of illness, according to state health officials.

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