The cases of flu at Tomah Memorial Hospital are on the rise prompting officials to urge visitors to stay at home. Officials said residents should not visit if they have flu or cold symptoms, including a cough, sore throat or fever. Signs have been posted at entrances to the hospital advising people of the health advisory. Hospital Infection Preventionist Jan Path said the flu has hit harder and earlier this year. She also had a number of tips to help stay healthy during the flu season.
“Number one would be to get plenty of rest, eat a good diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, avoid people who are sick, and when you are sick yourself, you should stay home and not spread illness to other people,” said Path. “Try to cover your cough or sneezes by using your arm instead of your hand and teach your children to do the same because children have found to be very efficient spreaders of influenza.”
Path said it is not too late to get a flu shot adding that flu in Wisconsin often doesn’t peak until February and can continue as late as May. Statewide officials describe the flu outbreak as high compared to moderate at this time last year.