WPRO News
Rhode Island Department of Health declared Tuesday that the flu virus is widespread in Rhode Island.
RI residents are urged to get the flu vaccine to prevent the further spreading of the flu, however Department of Health physician James McDonald said this year’s vaccine is not a perfect match to this year’s virus.
“We’re seeing some issues with the vaccine, [it is] less well matched as last year; that doesn’t mean it’s not working or is less effective, but wasn’t as well matched as the one last year was,” said McDonald.
McDonald said now that the flu has been declared as widespread, all medical workers who have not been immunized are required to treat patients while wearing surgical mask.
Symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, head and body aches, fatigue and runny nose. Some people also have vomiting and diarrhea.
