Public Health Advisory: Keeping New Bern Safe from Seasonal Illnesses

NEW BERN, NC – As we enter the peak season for respiratory illnesses, the Craven County Health Department wants to remind all New Bern residents about important steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from Influenza (Flu). The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

Your proactive measures are crucial in preventing the spread of the flu within our community, especially to vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.

Understanding the Flu: Symptoms to Watch For

Flu symptoms can come on suddenly and may include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills (not Y’all with flu will have a fever)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to act responsibly to prevent further spread.

Key Prevention Steps: What You Can Do

1. Get Your Flu Shot: It’s not too late! The flu vaccine is recommended for Y’all 6 months and older. It helps protect you and those around you, reducing flu illnesses, doctor visits, and hospitalizations.
2. Wash Your Hands Frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose, and before eating. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
3. Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands. Dispose of tissues immediately.
4. Avoid Touching Your Face: Try not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread easily this way.
5. Stay Home When Sick: If you have flu-like symptoms, stay home from work, school, and public gatherings for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medication. This helps prevent the spread of the virus to others.
6. Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work, and school, especially when someone is sick.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Most people with the flu will recover without medical care. However, certain individuals are at higher risk of serious flu complications. Seek medical advice promptly if you or a family member develop flu symptoms and are in a high-risk group (e.g., young children, older adults, pregnant women, people with chronic medical conditions) or experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness or confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Stay Informed

The Craven County Health Department is committed to keeping New Bern healthy and safe. For more information about Influenza (Flu) and local resources, please visit our website or contact us directly.

Let’s work together to keep our community safe and healthy this season!

Disclaimer: This advisory provides general public health information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.