Total Flu-Related Deaths In State Up To 79, OSDH Reports

Flu-related deaths in Oklahoma is now up to 79 since Sept. 1, 2019, state health officials reported Thursday.

Thursday, April 2nd 2020, 6:02 am

By: News On 6

Total Flu-Related Deaths In State Up To 79, OSDH Reports

Flu-related deaths in Oklahoma is now up to 79 since Sept. 1, 2019, state health officials reported Thursday.

This tally is four more than it was reported from last week.

So far, 3,415 Oklahomans have been hospitalized due to the flu since the start of the season in Oklahoma.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus which is spread by infected people coughing, sneezing or touching a surface handled by others. Its impact can be severe in some cases, especially among seniors, young children, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions, according to the CDC.

More: Oklahoma Doctors Warn Of Flu Shot Importance This Season

The CDC states the best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated.

The OSDH recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone. Avoid going to work, school, social events and public gatherings as well as traveling and shopping. The fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as acetaminophen before returning to a regular routine. To prevent the spread of the flu, the public is reminded to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and wash hands often.

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