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Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting a flu shot.
FLORENCE — Influenza (also known as flu) is widespread in Arizona, with more flu cases being reported this season compared to last year, including two influenza-associated pediatric deaths. Both pediatric deaths were positive for the H1N1 strain of influenza A, which has been linked to severe illness and deaths in healthy adults and children.
Fortunately this year’s flu vaccine provides protection against H1N1, and it is not too late for anyone over six months to get their flu shot. Pinal County Public Health offers flu vaccinations on a walk-in basis at nine clinic locations. Please call 1-866-960-0633 or visit www.pinalcountyaz.gov for more information about immunizations.
If you are sick with influenza-like illness, it is recommended to stay home from work or school at least 24 hours after you are fever free. Flu symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue. It is also important to protect yourself and others from spreading the virus by practicing good hygiene, including covering your cough and washing your hands. Individuals should visit a health care provider immediately if they experience high fevers lasting several days, difficulty breathing, not being able to drink enough fluids, or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.
There are news or informational items frequently written by staff or submitted to the Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner, Superior Sun, Pinal Nugget or Oracle Towne Crier for inclusion in our print or digital products. These items are not credited with an author.
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