Health Experts Offer Flu Advice

County health officials are warning of winter’s usual rise in ailments and urge residents to use preventive measures.

The most common illness will be influenza, a viral infection of the respiratory tract. Symptoms include fever, congestion, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, cough and sore throat.

Healthy people can survive it easily, but it can become life-threatening for the elderly or those with other ailments, said county Public Health Officer Dr. Mark B. Horton. Early intervention is key to minimizing complications.

To prevent flu, wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing.

To treat it, buy over-the-counter medications, drink lots of fluids and stay in bed. Medical attention is advisable if the flu lasts more than six days for adults and more than three days for children, or if there is difficulty breathing and severe weakness.

For more information on how to battle seasonal illnesses, contact the county Health Care Agency at (714) 834-3155.