Flu On The Rise

Approximately 10% - 20% of people in the United States get the flu each year. An average of about 36,000 people per year in the United States die from the flu, and 114,000 per year have to be admitted to the hospital as a result of the flu.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this year the flu activity in the United States continues to increase weekly and it seems that Liberal is no exception. 209 cases of the flu have been reported from SWMC's emergency room in the past 2 weeks.

Working in healthcare, we are familiar with what the flu is and how it is spread. But the many patients and visitors that walk through our doors daily are not aware of the precautions to take in order to not spread this illness, therefore they can easily spread the flu while inside the building. Cheryl Brock, Infection Control, reminds us of precautions to take: frequently wash hands, avoid touching nose, eyes, and mouth, and cover mouth when sneezing or coughing. She also reminds those who have not gotten a flu shot that it is not too late. Stop by the Employee Health office to receive your shot.