Flu Activity Continues Its May Decline
UPDATED May 24, 2013
By WeatherBug Meteorologist, John Bateman | May has continued the downward trend of influenza cases reported across the U.S. this spring. Just as the last two weeks, there are no states reporting widespread cases of the virus for this week`s update. And for the first time this year, no states are reporting Regional activity either.
Local influenza activity was being reported in just one state, Massachusetts.
Guam and 31 states were still reporting sporadic activity. These states are: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Eighteen states are reporting no activity, including Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, and West Virginia.
The U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia did not report this week.
A flu shot is still your best bet for keeping the flu at bay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends anyone older than 6 months get immunized. This year`s flu shot is made from three flu viruses, one of which is new to this year`s vaccine. Remember: the flu shot cannot give you the flu, but some side effects are possible, including a runny nose, sore throat, muscle aches, and mild fever.
Due to certain health restrictions, not everyone is eligible to receive the flu shot. For those of you who are not able to get a flu shot, there are other things you can do to minimize your risk for contracting the flu:
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
- Avoid exposing others when you are sick. Stay home from work or school if you are exhibiting symptoms.
- Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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