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Flu

Monday, January 14, 2013

American Red Cross Helps Kids Avoid the Flu in 3 Easy Steps

An influenza outbreak is being reported in 47 of the 50 states and children have been hit particularly hard, according to the relief agency.

Influenza outbreaks have been reported by health officials in 47 of the 50 states, according the American Red Cross. "One age group hit particularly hard is children," according to a Red Cross press release. The relief agency has three steps parents can teach their kids to help them avoid getting sick: Kids have a way of picking up colds and other illnesses. Parents should teach children proper hand washing techniques and how to correctly cover coughs or sneezes. Washing hands properly is an important step to avoid getting the flu. Wash hands with soap and warm water. When using soap and water: THE SCRUB CLUB The American Red Cross and NSF International have collaborated to help parents and teachers reinforce kids' hand-washing habits. The…

Oakland County Health Division Offers Low-Cost Flu Shots for $16

It's not too late to get vaccinated, Berkley and Huntington Woods!

The Oakland County Health Division says it's not too late to get vaccinated against the flu. “Compared to recent years, we are seeing early flu activity, although it is still within normal range. We have seen peaks as early as October and as late as March in the past," OCHD manager/health officer Kathy Forzley said. "It’s best to get your flu shot as soon as possible as it takes two weeks after the vaccination for the body to develop protection.” Shots cost $16 and are available from noon to 8 p.m. on Mondays and from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at the following locations. However, walk-in appointments are welcome; payment options include Medicare, Medicaid and cash (no credit cards, checks or money orders). Call 248-858-…

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Your Flu Questions Answered

Find out how the Berkley School District has been impacted and get the scoop on symptoms, where to find more information, where to get vaccinated and ways to stay healthy.

Flu season has come early this year and Michigan is among the states where the illness is widespread, according to the Centers for Disease Control. So, Huntington Woods-Berkley Patch has put together a handy guide to help keep you and your family healthy! Read on for advice from local experts on symptoms, where to find more information, where to get vaccinated and ways to stay healthy. Influenza is a life-threatening disease, especially for the elderly and infants, according to the Oakland County Health Division, which reports there were 18 pediatric deaths nationwide and four in Michigan as of Thursday, Jan. 10. "Flu can be spread to others up to about six feet away, mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk," the…

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Oakland County Health Division Issues Hand-Washing Reminder

This simple step can prevent the spread of influenza and other illnesses.

The Oakland County Health Division says hand washing is among the most important measures an individual can take to prevent the spread of illnesses such as the common cold, influenza or infectious diarrhea. The Health Division recommends one to wash his or her hands often in warm, soapy water to loosen and remove germs that can make one sick. “Your hands come in contact with many different surfaces throughout the day. If you do not wash your hands frequently, you can infect yourself with accumulated germs when you touch your eyes, nose or mouth,” said Dr. Pamela Hackert, the Health Division’s chief of medical services. “In addition, other people can also become infected if you touch them or shared surfaces with your unwashed hands.” If …

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Where to Get Flu Shots in Berkley, Huntington Woods

Learn how to recognize influenza symptoms and what to know about treatment if you get sick.

Flu season is coming early in parts of the United States. Overall in Michigan, activity is considered high now, while it was low at this time in 2011, according to Google's Flu Trends. If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some Berkley and Huntington Woods locations that offer the vaccine: More locations According to this week's CDC Flu activity report, influenza levels are on the increase across the country.  Five states – Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee – are reporting flu rates not normally seen until January, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The flu season normally peaks in January and February. Holiday travel and more time spent indoors due to soggy weather will contribute to the spread of …

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