What's Going Around? Stomach Flu, Flu, Common Cold

Widespread flu isn't the only illness Going Around Green Country.

Doctor Kathryn Zackery at the Muscogee Creek Nation Department of Health's Sapulpa clinic is seeing the stomach flu.

The stomach flu is not the flu, although the symptoms can be similar and include; nausea, vomiting diarrhea fever, chills and stomach cramps.

It usually lasts a week.

The flu on the other hand can last two to three weeks and starts forcefully with symptoms of extreme fatigue, a fever and respiratory congestion such as coughing.

Speaking of the flu, it is still in Okmulgee Express Clinic.

Nurse Practitioner Kim Hicks Jenkins said other symptoms include runny or stuffy nose and body aches.

Over-the-counter medications may relieve some flu symptoms, but it will not make you less contagious. If you have the flu stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone.

If you have not gotten your flu shot, it's not too late. Peak season for the flu is February.

Nurse Jenkins is also seeing lots of colds. This can cause runny noses, nasal congestion, sneezing and a cough.

Colds are contagious, so avoid others who are sick and wash your hands for at least 30 seconds.

Contrary to popular belief, cold weather or getting chilled does not cause the common cold.