(WWL.com)
According to the Louisiana Department of Health, about one out of ten visits to a health care provider are for flu-like symptoms. While there are flu cases being reported all around the state, LDH indicates a big concentration of reports is in New Orleans. Flu bug expert Dr. Frank Welch said the state is at the peak of flu season just in time for Mardi Gras.
“We’re trying to promote to people ‘Catch beads, not the flu,’ which means if you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, please go get it,” said Welch.
Welch recommends washing hands and not sharing drinks while congregating and celebrating Mardi Gras.
“As we get together for those large events, those balls, and out with lots handshaking, lots of kissing on the cheek, that is the way that flu spreads, so your best protection is to have that flu shot,” said Welch.
The flu causes approximately 500 deaths and nearly 3000 hospitalizations each year in Louisiana. Welch said if someone hasn’t gotten a flu shot by now, they still have time.
“It takes about two days to start to become effective and a full week to become protected, which is just in time for Mardi Gras,” said Welch.
LDH recommends if you are sick, stay away from other people until you have not had a fever for 24 hours.