INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Department of Health reported the first influenza-associated death of a child between the ages of 0-4.
The death, along with three others in the past week, bring the statewide total to 32 deaths as of April 1, 2022.
Allen County is the only county in the state with more than five deaths deaths across all age groups.
The DOH reports that statewide influenza-like illness activity is minimal currently, but Hoosiers should remain advised to potential for serious illness from influenza.
The flu is “spread by respiratory droplets released when infected people cough or sneeze nearby or when people touch surfaces or objects contaminated with those infectious respiratory droplets. People can also become infected by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with influenza viruses and then touching their eyes, mouth or nose,” according to the ISDH.
Symptoms include:
- fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
- headache
- fatigue
- cough
- muscle aches
- sore throat
While there is no cure for the flu, some medications can help ease symptoms, according to health officials.
How can you tell if you have the flu, allergies or the traditional cold?
If you are feeling the effects of allergies, you typically won't have a fever or much fatigue or body aches. If you have a cold, you might have a mild fever and some body aches. You might feel weak and even have some ear congestion. Colds generally last about a week.
If you're diagnosed with the flu, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands and stay home.
-
Hoosiers share potential impact of cutting crisis lines, LGBTQ youth services
A leaked budget draft reportedly revealed plans to get rid of the lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services. The program is funded through the USDHHS and could be on the chopping block in October.Indiana's First Lady launches partnership for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
Indiana's First Lady launched a new fundraising initiative to expand and sustain Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library across the state, a news release said.Haliburton and Pacers eliminate Bucks from playoffs, closing OT win 119-118
Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers stole one from the Milwaukee Bucks. Indiana forced two turnovers in the final 29 seconds of overtime.ISP investigating deadly crash in Delaware County
Indiana State Police are investigating a deadly crash on State Road 67 between County Road 600 West and 700 West in Delaware County around 8 a.m. Tuesday morning.