1.5 min readBy Published On: January 10th, 2013Categories: Features0 Comments on Feeling sick?

Hey, Sicko! Flu season back with a vengeance

 

The flu has been hitting Boston hard this season.  Could it be mild temperatures?  A germ infestation?  Combination of both?  On Wednesday, Mayor Menino declared a public health emergency with a ten fold increase compared to last seasons 70 confirmed cases.  There have been 700 confirmed cases of the flu so far this season. 

 

 

So what are we do do?  Common sense rules in this situation: 

    –    Wash your hands often with soap
    –    Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs can spread this way.
    –    As much as possible, avoid close contact with people who are sick.
    –    If you have a fever or feel ill, stay home.

Panic mode:
We heard through the grapevine people are riding the T wearing masks and gloves.  Maybe a tad excessive but for anyone who’s had the flu and knows the feelings of “near death” symptoms then those people don’t seem so crazy. 

The Boston Public Health Commission is urging people to call your primary care physician and get a flu shot. The city is offering free flu shots this weekend.  On Saturday, January 12th from 9am to 1pm stop by the South Boston Health Center (409 West Broadway) and get one!  It will only hurt for a second!  Have questions?  Call the Mayor’s Health Line at 617-534-5050 from 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday, or the Mayor’s 24-hour Hotline at 617-635-4500 after hours.  And for the love of God, when you cough, cover your mouth!

Stay healthy, Southie!