WC Wisconsin News

Tomah Health has reported its first case of influenza for the year, according to Jena Cornell, the hospital's Infection Preventionist. A patient was recently hospitalized with Influenza Type A. Cornell noted that the flu season has begun later than usual this year. "We have started to see a few more cases through our Emergency Department since this hospitalization, but our case counts are currently remaining low," she stated.

Cornell also mentioned that the hospital is seeing cases of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses.

Most flu cases involve the Influenza Type A virus, which presents symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and cough. "The flu virus can be picked up from surfaces and if you touch your mouth, nose or eyes, you can pick up that virus and become ill," said Cornell. She emphasized that getting an annual flu shot and washing hands are effective preventive measures.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises everyone six months and older to receive a yearly flu vaccine. "It’s really important for people to understand what their options are and how our vaccines work. If you are very young or immunocompromised, or above the age of 65 it is recommended that you think about getting a flu vaccine or COVID vaccine to protect yourself and others against those viruses and give your body the best chance of not getting severely ill," Cornell explained.

Cornell warned that holiday gatherings could increase the spread of respiratory illnesses. "If you or a family member are not feeling well, the best thing to do is stay home when you are sick. If that is not possible wearing a mask will decrease the spread of respiratory particles."

Health officials generally expect flu season to peak between December and February.