The Wayland Health Department has observed increased positive Flu-A lab results being reported over the last few weeks, including the Wayland Public Schools. The MDPH April 29, 2022 Weekly Influenza Report indicates overall Influenza Illness severity as Moderate within Massachusetts. As Flu is less common this time of year, we want everyone to be mindful of this increased communicable illness within our community.

If you have fever with cough or sore throat, you may have the flu. If you think you have the flu, stay home from work and school and avoid contact with others so you do not spread the virus. If you think you might have flu and you need to see your doctor, call ahead and let them know you might have the flu. That way, your doctor’s office can take steps to avoid the spread of flu to others. The doctor may recommend that you be tested for flu.

People sick with flu should make sure to drink plenty of fluids, get plenty of rest, eat healthy foods, wash their hands often and stay home to avoid spreading the flu to other people. Over the counter pain relievers may help people with the flu feel more comfortable. Children and teens with the flu should never take aspirin, because a rare but serious disease called Reye syndrome can occur. Do not give cough or cold medicines to children younger than 4 years of age unless you have followed up with your child’s medical provider.

How can I prevent getting the flu?

• Get flu vaccine every year. Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol- based hand gel.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into the inside of your elbow if you don’t have a tissue. Throw tissues away and wash your hands. Always wash your hands before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Use household cleaners to clean things that are touched often, like doorknobs, toys, and phones.
• Avoid close physical contact with people who are sick. Try to stay at least 3-6 feet from someone who is sick with the flu.
• Stay home from work and school if you get sick with a flu-like illness (fever with cough or sore throat) and avoid contact with others so the virus does not spread.
• Stay at home until you have been free from fever for at least 24 hours after your last dose of fever-reducing medication (like Tylenol, Advil or Motrin). For most people this will mean staying at home for about 4 days.

The Wayland Health Department has Flu vaccine available for those aged 6mos and older. Please call us at 508-358-6805. Press Option 2 and leave a message. We will contact you to schedule a convenient Flu vaccine appointment at our office.

Julia Junghanns, R.S., Director of Public Health jjunghanns@wayland.ma.us Phone: 508-358-3617 Fax: 508-358-3619

Ruth Mori, M.S.N, R.N., Public Health Nurse/Nurse Leader rmori@wayland.ma.us Phone: 508-358-3617 Fax: 508-358-3619