Am Samoa reports increase of flu-like cases

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The American Samoa Department of Health reports that there’s a increase of flu-like cases and offers advice on how those afflicted can stop the spread.

You may feel some or all of the following symptoms when you are sick with the flu or have the common cold:

  • Feeling feverish/chills or having a fever *cough
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle/body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Vomiting/diarrhea (most common in children)

Most times symptoms are mild, however, some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications such as pneumonia. This includes people 65 years and older, anyone with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and children below 5-years-old (especially those younger than 2-years-old).

If you are sick with the flu, you must stay home until you have recovered.

A person sick with the flu can spread it by tiny droplets made when they cough, sneeze or talk. Remember to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw it in the trash after you use them.

If you have symptoms of flu and are in a higher-risk group or are worried about your illness, you should contact a health care provider for advice as soon as symptoms begin.

Immediately seek medical care if any of these warning signs appear:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing (nasal flaring of nostrils widen while breathing)
  • Bluish lips or face in children
  • Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
  • Dehydration in children (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
  • Not alert or interacting when child is awake
  • Seizures
  • Fever above 104°F (in children less than 12 weeks, any fever)
  • Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Persistent dizziness, confusion
  • Inability to arouse in adults
  • Severe weakness or unsteadiness
  • Worsening of chronic medical conditions

Prevent flu by getting a flu vaccine every year.

DOH  recommends that you take preventive actions everyday to help slow the spread of germs that cause illnesses like the flu. Stay away from sick people, covering coughs and sneezes, frequent washing of hands, and minimize touching your eyes, nose and mouth.