THOMASVILLE — The number of flu cases is rising, and officials with Archbold Health Systems said there are ways to reduce the risk of getting the flu.

“In the month of December, we screened over 600 individuals in Archbold’s emergency department for the flu, with less than 20 percent resulting in positive results,” said Archbold infection control coordinator Mike Washington, RN. “In the first week of January, the rate of positive tests rose to 27 percent.”

Washington added The Centers for Disease Control identified Georgia as having a high level of flu activity. As of January 6, according to the CDC, 23 states are experiencing high flu activity levels.

“Archbold is committed to preventing the spread of the flu in our facilities,” said Washington. “Some of our prevention measures include staff receiving flu vaccinations prior to the start of flu season, widely available hand sanitizer for public use throughout our facilities to encourage healthy hand hygiene and continuing to practice frequent handwashing. We are also encouraging visitors who are not feeling well or have fever to avoid visiting patients. Masks are also available to those who choose to visit the hospital at this time.”  

CDC recommendations for flu prevention:

• Get a flu vaccination each year.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

• If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

• Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.