Fifth Flu-Related Death Reported in Dallas County This Season

Benton and Washington counties were among some of the places where the highest number of flu cases were reported, according to a report published recently by the ADH.

On Thursday, health officials encourage prevention methods after they say a DE senior's death is the second flu-related death in the state. One involved a child between 5 and 17 years old.

The Arkansas Department of Health classifies October as the beginning of flu season, with cases normally peaking between December and March, Mirivel said.

"What runs through my head is let's get ready ... it just tells us to batten down the hatches and get ready for the flu season", said Dr. Scott Ghere at Utica Park Clinic. At the same time past year, there were 91 laboratory-confirmed cases with 26 hospitalizations and one death. Antiviral drugs are only available through prescription. Those at high-risk include pregnant women and those with chronic disorders.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for all persons aged 6 months and older, with rare exception.

A Monterey County resident has died from complications from the flu, the first death of the flu season, the county's health department reported Thursday. Antibiotics are not effective against the flu. Stay home if you are sick until you are free of fever for 24 hours - with a temperature of less than 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C), without the use of fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.