State Health Department Confirms 9 New Flu-Related Hospitalizations

Nine more people were hospitalized with the flu statewide, according to the state health department.

Thursday, May 21st 2020, 10:13 am

By: News 9


-

Flu-related deaths in Oklahoma remained at 85 since Sept. 1, 2019, state health officials reported Thursday.

No one died from the flu within the last week. However, nine more people were hospitalized due to flu-related symptoms.

So far, 3,529 Oklahomans have been hospitalized due to the flu since the start of the season in Oklahoma.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus which is spread by infected people coughing, sneezing or touching a surface handled by others. Its impact can be severe in some cases, especially among seniors, young children, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions, according to the CDC.

More: Oklahoma Doctors Warn Of Flu Shot Importance This Season

The CDC states the best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated.

The OSDH recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone. Avoid going to work, school, social events and public gatherings as well as traveling and shopping. The fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as acetaminophen before returning to a regular routine. To prevent the spread of the flu, the public is reminded to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and wash hands often.


logo

Get The Daily Update!

Be among the first to get breaking news, weather, and general news updates from News 9 delivered right to your inbox!

More Like This

May 21st, 2020

March 11th, 2024

December 1st, 2023

November 2nd, 2023

Top Headlines

March 28th, 2024

March 28th, 2024

March 28th, 2024

March 28th, 2024