File photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
By Steve Klamkin WPRO News
The Rhode Island Department of Health declares flu is widespread in Rhode Island, a declaration that triggers regulations that health care workers either get vaccinated, or wear surgical masks when in direct contact with patients.
“Flu is here in Rhode Island, and all signs indicate that this flu season is expected to be more severe than those in recent past,” said state health Director Dr. Michael Fine in a statement.
“We encourage all Rhode Islanders to protect themselves and those around them by being immunized against influenza. Our healthcare workers have an obligation to protect those they care for by getting immunized or wearing a mask as required by the Department of Health’s regulations,” said Fine.
“We’re not sure what this flu season looks like, it may be a little bit more severe than last year,” said Dr. James McDonald, public health physician with the Department of Health.
“We’re seeing some issues with the vaccine, the vaccine is less well matched this year than last year. That doesn’t mean it’s not working and it’s not still as effective, but it wasn’t as well matched as the one last year was,” Dr. McDonald said. He said people should take precautions, and get a flu shot.
“The flu is very easy to catch and very easy to give to other people. And, that’s where protecting our hands, and just keeping our hands as free of that germ and virus is really the best thing we can do,” he said, urging frequent hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer.
“If you haven’t gotten the vaccine yet, go find a pharmacy or a primary care provider, someone who’s got the vaccine that’s still widely available throughout the state, and get yourself a vaccine, because there’s no such thing as being too late for the flu vaccine,” said Dr. McDonald.
In a statement, the Rhode Island Department of Health offered further recommendations:
Flu vaccine is generally recommended for people ages six months and older. It is especially important for healthcare workers, pregnant women, people over the age of 50, nursing or group home residents, and people with chronic conditions such as heart, lung or kidney disease, diabetes, asthma, anemia, blood disorders, or weakened immune systems to be immunized against flu. In particular, those who live with or care for those who are at high risk of flu-related complications should also be immunized.
Symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, head and body aches, fatigue and runny nose. Some people also have vomiting and diarrhea.
Immunizations are available throughout Rhode Island, including through your primary care provider, at flu vaccination clinics, and at local pharmacies.
For more information about influenza or to find a vaccination clinic near you, visit www.health.ri.gov/flu
