(JUNEAU) Families in Dodge County are being reminded how quickly everyday illnesses can spread — and what they can do to protect themselves this winter.
The Dodge County Health Department is sharing new information with the community as part of its ongoing effort to raise awareness about communicable diseases. These are illnesses that spread from person to person, from animals to people, or through contact with contaminated surfaces, food, or body fluids.
For the first quarter of the year, the department is highlighting influenza, commonly known as the flu.
Health officials say the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. While many people recover at home, the flu can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, lead to serious complications or death.
The virus spreads mainly through tiny droplets released when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes or talks. Those droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby, making close contact one of the most common ways the flu moves through a community.
Symptoms often come on suddenly and can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people — especially children — may also experience vomiting or diarrhea.
The health department says prevention remains the most effective defense. Getting a flu vaccine each year is the single best way to reduce the risk of illness. Officials also encourage residents to wash their hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when sick to help slow the spread.
More information about influenza and prevention tips is available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at cdc.gov/flu.
