Flu Hits Oklahomans

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- A metro doctor said the cases of both the flu and stomach flu are relatively mild this season. However, with more people catching the bug, it's important to know the symptoms and how to prevent the flu.

Doctors said the symptoms for the more prevalent stomach flu are abdominal cramping, diarrhea and vomiting and it's very contagious.

"Usually it's direct person to person where you have spread from one person either through stool or their vomit, or picked up by another person, or on surfaces on the household, especially if someone is caring for a child and changing diapers on your hands and not washing your hands. That's how it may be transmitted," said Oklahoma State Health Director of Communicable Diseases Laurence Burnsed.

"I've heard lots of people having it and I'm in sales so I'm meeting people and shaking hands all day long, so I could've gotten it anywhere, at a restaurant or making sales call," said Kelli Carder who came down with the stomach virus.

After a grueling 48 hours, Carder is back on her feet.

"Just take it easy, which is against my nature because I like to go. But I just kind of had to rest and take care of myself. It just kind of ran its course," Carder said.

Carder also said she had a flu shot, but doctors said that wouldn't help since it does not have an effect on the stomach virus. They said the best thing to do is wash your hands regularly and drink lots of liquids.

Links on Flu Prevention:

• Center for Disease Control's 3 Steps to Fight the Flu
• 12 Natural Tips to Prevent a Cold