Seasonal flu activity is considered to be at a high level across the U.S. Influenza cases and hospitalizations are also high across Columbus and Franklin County.
If a student or staff member becomes sick with flu symptoms, stay home (for at least 24 hours) and avoid contact with others, except medical professionals (if needed). If you’re in a high-risk group or very sick, contact your healthcare provider, as you may need medication to help treat your illness.
What you can do to Avoid Catching and/or Spreading the Flu:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or the bend of your arm when your cough or sneeze. Avoid using your hand to cover a cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
How do you know if you have the flu? You may have the flu if you have some of all of these symptoms:
- Fever (not everyone with the flu will have a fever) Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea and vomiting (not everyone with the flu will have diarrhea or vomiting
It’s not too late to get a flu shot! You can contact Franklin County Public Health Department at 614-525-3719 to schedule an appointment.