DALLAS — Three pediatric flu-related deaths have now been confirmed in Tarrant County, according to officials.
According to a weekly influenza report, three patients under the age of 18 have died during the 2019-2020 flu season.
Health officials report that during this flu season there have been no influenza outbreaks in Tarrant County schools.
In addition to Tarrant County, one pediatric flu-related death has been confirmed in Dallas County.
The current strains that are circulating are "slightly genetically different" from the strain in this season’s vaccine, but people are still encouraged to get a vaccine to help control symptoms.
The ALA released the following tips on how to fight the flu:
1. Get vaccinated now (if you haven't already)
Influenza vaccine effectiveness can vary from year to year. However, vaccination is still one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you from the flu, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get an annual influenza vaccination.
Pneumonia can be a deadly complication related to the flu.
Talk to your doctor about whether you should also consider getting vaccinated for pneumonia.
2. Get prompt medical attention if you develop flu symptoms
Flu symptoms often appear suddenly. People at higher risk of complications, such as those with chronic lung disease, should seek prompt medical attention.
Treatment may include antiviral medicine which can reduce flu symptoms if started within a day or two of getting sick. Symptoms of influenza can include:
- High fever
- Headache, muscle aches and joint pain
- Cough (usually dry)
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion and runny nose
- Fatigue
3. Help stop the spread of the flu
Help prevent other people from catching your flu.
Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water; avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; and clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
Stay home from work, school and public places when you are sick.
The period when a person with the flu is contagious and can pass it on to others varies depending on the age and health of the person.
In general, most healthy people are contagious beginning one day before their own flu symptoms appear, and will remain contagious five to seven days after becoming sick.
