Influenza is spreading all throughout the country, giving health officials cause for concern. In Boston, for example, 700 instances of the flu have already been confirmed, which might not seem like a lot in a population of more than 600,000, but is seen as the health hazard that it is once you realize that only 70 illnesses were reported by the same time last year.
This type of flu outbreak is happening all across the country, and the phenomenon is being analyzed in a new report from CBS News. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that hospitalizations have increased twofold in the past 30 days alone.
What can one do to prevent an illness? For one thing, flu shots should be a must, especially among the elderly and young children. And although such a move would have had greater chances of success earlier in the year due to the fact that immunization takes a few weeks, a shot can still prevent an illness. Even though flu cases tend to reach their peak in February, it’s not uncommon for an illness to set in well into the spring months.
Finally, do whatever else you can to protect yourself. Stay away from those who are visibly ill, don’t touch your face, and wash your hands at regular intervals.