DR. LANOUE ADDRESSES INFLUENZA OUTBREAK

Doug Lanoue, MD, Family Practice/OB on staff at Iroquois Memorial Hospital is urging everyone to get a flu vaccine as this year's influenza outbreak is earlier this year than most. "According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois is now one of thirty-two states where this year's flu outbreak has been classified as widespread. Additionally this past week three deaths in Illinois have been attributed to the flu," said Dr. Doug.

"Everyone who is at least 6 months of age should get a flu vaccine this season. It's especially important for those who are considered a high risk to get vaccinated", urges Dr. Doug. Those are people who are at high risk of developing serious complications like pneumonia if they get sick with the flu. They include those who have certain medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease, pregnant women, people 65 years and older, and people who live with or care for others who are high risk of developing serious complications.

There are additional good hygiene habits that everyone should observe to reduce the spreading of the flu. The simplest one is to wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of transmitting germs or if your hands are not soiled use a waterless alcohol-free hand sanitizer.

When washing your hands use soap and water. Wash for at least twenty seconds, humming the song happy birthday twice is a fairly accurate measurement. Dry your hands and use a disposable towel to turn off the faucet and open the door otherwise you have re-soiled your hands.

Cover your sneezes and coughs. When you sneeze or cough, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue (not your hands), and be sure to throw the tissue away immediately.
You can also cough into your sleeve if you don't have a tissue handy. Hand sanitizers can also help. Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth to keep germs away.

If you think you have developed the flu do not go to work or school and infect others. Drink plenty of fluids, except soda as caffeine is considered a diuretic and may lead to dehydration. Get plenty of rest and contact your healthcare provider.

Dr. Doug joined the IMH Medical Staff in August 2012 after completing a Fellowship in Chicago. Dr. Doug grew up in Manteno, IL and attended University of Illinois, Rockford School of Medicine. He is Board Certified and sees patients at the IMH Multi-Specialty Physicians Clinic located at 200 N. Laird Lane, Watseka. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Doug please call 815-432-5411.