Fluremainsactive

One New Year’s resolution to stay healthy may not last long.

The flu bug continues to be a thorn in the side for many county residents.

The Nevada Health and Human Services confirms 162 flu cases in Churchill County so far this flu season, which began in late fall and peaks in January or February. Banner Health reports 265 vaccinations have been administered in the county at Banner Churchill Community Hospital. That figure does not include the community health nurse, walk-in clinics or private physicians.

According to state figures, about 5-20 percent have the flu each year.

Most people who come down with the flu have it from a few days to a week or two. The division of health, though, stated some people can develop complications that could be life-threatening or result in death.

According to the state, people who have the flu often feel some or all these signs or symptoms: fever/feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, very tired, and some people may have vomiting or diarrhea.

The health division said the flu viruses spread when people who have the flu cough, sneeze or talk.

The division of health said certain people are at greater risk for serious complications including older people, young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.

The CDC estimates that flu kills between 3,000 and 49,000 people each year, including many young, perfectly healthy people. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine; it is the single best defense against this serious disease.