The Flu
This page will provide information about Influenza in the Little
Rock area. It will be updated periodically.
Flu Activity in Little Rock
The FLU has not been reported in Arkansas for the 2007-2008 season. (As on
Nov 24th.)
Signs and Symptoms of the Flu
- Fever
- Fatigue or extreme tiredness
- Sore throat
- Body and muscle aching and pain
- Headache
- Cough, mostly dry or non-productive
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea is more common in children
Treatment For a Cold
There's no cure for a cold or the flu. Antibiotics do not work
against viruses and taking unnecessary antibiotics can lead to more serious
infections. All you can do to feel better is treat your symptoms while
your body fights off the virus.
- Stay home and rest, especially while you have a fever.
- Stop smoking and even avoid secondhand smoke, which can make cold
symptoms worse.
- Drink plenty of fluids like water, fruit juices and clear soups. Fluids
will help loosen mucus. Fluids are also important if you have a fever
because fever can dry up your body's fluids, which can lead to dehydration.
You may find it helpful to have a cool mist humidifier in your bedroom.
- Don't drink alcohol.
- Gargle with warm salt water a few times a day to relieve a sore throat.
Throat sprays or lozenges may also help relieve the pain.
- Use saline (salt water) nose drops to help loosen mucus and moisten the
tender skin in your nose.
Flu Shots
There is no shortage for 2007. If there were a shortage we would
vaccinate only the 'priority groups' as defined by the CDC, which are:
- people age 65 or older
- residents of long-term care facilities
- pregnant women
- health-care personnel
- household contacts of children less than 6 months old
- children 6 - 23 months old - Note: we ask you to contact your child's
pediatrician as we do not have the pediatric vaccine
- people age 2 - 64 years with a chronic illness
Preventing the spread of Influenza
- Clean your hands often - use a alcohol based gel if you are not near
soap and water
- Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth
- Stay away from people who are sick
- Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Get regular exercise, enough rest and eat healthy balanced meals
If you think you may have influenza call 227-6363 for an appointment.