The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

The Centers for Disease Control is alerting clinicians to be fully aware of the potential benefits of influenza antiviral medications during this active influenza season. Antiviral medications can reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. People who suspect they have the flu are encouraged to seek early treatment. The symptoms of influenza include fever, chills, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches and stomach symptoms.

Recent surveillance data indicate that many communities are reporting substantially increased influenza activity this season. The CDC health advisory issued on February 29 reemphasized the importance of considering the antiviral medications for use in the treatment or prevention of influenza, especially in institutions where an outbreak occurs like nursing homes or long-term care facilities. These antiviral medications are effective in combating some strains of the flu.

People who test positive for the flu are encouraged to talk to their clinicians about the benefits of using antiviral medications.

The best prevention for avoiding the flu includes getting a flu vaccination, frequent hand washing, staying home if you are ill, and covering your sneeze or cough.

If you think you have the flu or have a family member with flu symptoms, call you health care provider to see if you might benefit from an antiviral.