Flu shots still a good thing, even after season

MOSES LAKE — The recent death of a 15-year-old that may have been flu-related has prompted the Grant County Health District to urge parents to make sure their kids have flu shots.

The 15-year-old Soap Lake boy died March 10, after being sick for about a month. Health district officials have investigated, but can’t comment on a specific case, said public information officer Heather Massert. But whenever flu is around, “your best protection is the flu shot,” Massert added.

“Our number-one message is, get your flu shot.” Flu shots are recommended for adults and children more than 6 months of age, she said. It’s especially important for children 5 years of age and younger, according to the Washington Department of Health website.

There is an official flu season every winter, but flu and colds also show up in the summer. The DOH’s March update said flu is still circulating in Washington.

Children 6 months to 8 years of age should get one or two shots, depending on if, or when, they received flu shots by July 1, 2016. The flu vaccine also is important for pregnant women and people with asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease or other chronic conditions. It’s recommended for people more than 65 years of age as well.

Massert said parents should pay attention to flu symptoms, which include fever, cough, a sore throat and body aches, and sometimes nausea and diarrhea. “A parent is going to know the child the best,” and will know when to consult a physician, she said.

But if parents are concerned about symptoms they should consult the doctor. “It’s always better to be safe than sorry,” she said. Any time symptoms persist it’s a good idea to call the doctor, the DOH website said.

Winter or summer, good hygiene keeps the flu from spreading. People should wash their hands frequently, with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer if there’s no water around. It’s a good idea to cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and use a tissue. Surfaces at home that get a lot of use should be cleaned frequently. That includes doorknobs, countertops and faucets. People who are sick should stay home.

Cheryl Schweizer can be reached via email at education@columbiabasinherald.com.