INDIANAPOLIS — There have been 48 recorded deaths from flu-related illnesses this season across the state of Indiana — an increase from 24 deaths last week.
Of the 48 deaths, 45 have occurred in Hoosiers 50 and older.
Two Hoosiers between 25-49 have died and one person between the ages of 5-24 has died.
Earlier this week, the Indiana State Department of Health reported the first pediatric death of the year from influenza. That is reflected in the single death between the ages of 5-24 above.
Influenza-like illness remains very high in Indiana.
The ISDH says 13 long-term care facilities have reported flu outbreaks.
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.
-
Man sentenced to 20 years in prison after shaking infant son to death in 2021
An Indianapolis father will spend over 20 years in prison after telling detectives “I lost my cool” when prosecutors say he caused the shaken-baby death of his 4-month-old son.
Medicare says scammers are targeting Americans amid open enrollment period
If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from Medicare, be weary. Officials say it could be a scam.
11 indicted in connection to meth trafficking operation in Indianapolis
Eleven people are being federally charged in connection to a meth trafficking operation in Indianapolis. This comes after a series of DEA led raids took place on Wednesday.
Matt Gaetz says he's removing his name for consideration for attorney general
Matt Gaetz says he's removing his name for consideration for attorney general. President-elect Donald Trump nominated Gaetz to be the attorney general last week.
