The Cascade City-County Health Department (CCHD) has seen an increase in reported influenza cases in Cascade County.
In a Thursday press release, officials state surveillance efforts are finding a number of the influenza cases are presenting themselves without a fever and are showing more cold-like symptoms.
CCHD wants to remind residents about the continued risk of influenza in the community and how people can protect themselves from the contagious illness.
Influenza is a potentially life-threatening respiratory illness with symptoms that may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.
The flu virus is contagious and spreads from person to person through droplets when sneezing or coughing. It can also spread when a person touches an object with the virus on it and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes.
The CCHD stated the best line of defense against the influenza is to get the flu shot. Even if the vaccine does not completely prevent influenza, it can still help lessen the intensity and duration of the illness, according to the press release.
CCHD offers the flu shot on a walk-in basis during clinic hours. The Public Health Nurses are available to assist people interested in receiving their flu shot, no appointment necessary. In addition, there is no cost with most insurance and all forms of payment are accepted.
The Clinic is open on Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Wednesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
