Recently, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced that influenza (flu) activity is rising and increasing throughout Los Angeles County earlier than most years.  To protect the public’s health, the Department of Public Health urges flu vaccinations for everyone ages six months and older.

Most people will recover with rest and fluids, and are urged to call their doctor or nurse hotline, rather than visit an emergency department, where wait times may be long at this time.  People at greater risk for complications from the flu should seek medical care as soon as they begin to feel ill, whether or not they have been vaccinated.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health suggests the following to protect yourself and others from the flu:

• Get vaccinated.  This is the single best way to avoid the flu.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.  If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Stay home when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading any illness to others.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.  If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth because germs often are spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs.
• Practice other good health habits.  Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work, or school, especially when someone is ill.  Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

For additional information, visit publichealth.lacounty.gov.