LIMA, OHIO (WLIO) - As flu season nears its peak, area hospitals and health officials are urging residents to prioritize their health.
According to the Allen County Public Health Office, at least one fatality has been reported due to the flu.
Flu cases are on the rise in Allen County and surrounding communities compared to case numbers from a week ago. According to the Allen County Public Health Office, at least one fatality has been reported due to the flu. Doctors' offices and hospitals are seeing an increase in flu visits and flu cases. Allen County Public Health Commissioner Brandon Fischer has some tips on how to limit the spread of the flu during this peak season.
“We want to make sure that the community is aware that this is a serious virus, and it is something that you can at least limit some of the impacts of that virus by getting a flu shot if you haven't had one for this flu season. But you can also limit the spread of influenza by avoid being around others when you're sick, stay home, give your body an opportunity to rest, make sure you're washing your hands frequently, using hand sanitizer, and avoid contacting your nose, eyes, and mouth with your hands, just to make sure you're not introducing that virus to you,” said Brandon Fischer, health commissioner for Allen County Public Health.
Additionally, Mercy Health-St. Rita’s has issued a restriction on visitation with patients due to an increase in flu cases. Effective immediately, children under the age of 14 are restricted from visiting patients, with the exception of the labor and delivery units. They also advise visitors not to visit patients if they have experienced high-risk exposure to anyone with a respiratory illness, fever, or flu-like symptoms.
