Another year of flu season, the peak has arrived early

Another year of flu season, the peak has arrived early. The Arizona Department of Health Services reported that so far, the flu has spread to 15 counties across the state, with 1,143...

The Arizona Department of Health Services reported that so far, the flu has spread to 15 counties across the state, with 1,143 cases, including the death of an infant in Maricopa County.

Data from the Ministry of Health show that there are significantly more influenza cases this year than during the same period last year.

Usually, the flu season starts on October 1 of each year and lasts until late May of the following year. There is no certain pattern in the peak period of citizen infection, but it usually occurs around Christmas/Winter Solstice.

According to the Ministry of Health, a child in Ma County died of influenza A infection. There were two child deaths last year and there have been four this year. (The Ministry of Health does not track the number of deaths among adults infected with influenza.)

Types of influenza

Of the three types of influenza viruses currently found, type A and type B are the most common. Health Ministry officials said the most reported cases this year were type A.

Influenza A mainly infects the elderly and infants. The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated. The Ministry of Health recommends that adults and infants over 6 months old should get the flu vaccine as early as possible.

Five tips to avoid the flu

Avoid contact with your eyes, nose and mouth.

Wash your hands, especially after using the bathroom and after coughing or sneezing.

Use hand sanitizer to wash your hands, or soap if not available.

If you are sick, stay home and take time off.

Use disposable paper towels and throw them away after use.