The flu season is off to a rough start in Missouri. As of the beginning of December, more than 1,500 cases of the flu were reported to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), compared to fewer than 400 at the same time last year.

The numbers could indicate that flu season is coming early to the Show-Me State or that it will be particularly severe.

Augusta Elementary was shut down last Friday, Dec. 15, due to an outbreak of flu and flu-like symptoms among students. The school was disinfected and reopened Monday.

School officials in Warrenton and Wright City said attendance has been down a little because of illness, but it isn’t a drastic concern like in Augusta, which is part of the Washington School District.

Experts say the strains of flu virus circulating this year tend to infect more people and create more severe outbreaks.

“We know that historically, the intensity or prevalence of flu can vary from year to year. But this year, all indications are that we are seeing more flu earlier in the year and we anticipate more cases,” said DHSS Director Dr. Randall Williams in a public statement.

“Now is the time to get your flu shot if you haven’t already,” he said. “The flu shot, combined with proper handwashing, are the two most effective things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones this holiday season.”

According to DHSS, the most common symptoms of flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle or body aches. Flu viruses spread by tiny droplets when a person with flu coughs, sneezes or talks.

It’s important to remember that certain people are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications, like pneumonia or bronchitis, if they get sick. Some of these complications can be life-threatening.

Those at high risk for flu-related complications include people age 65 years and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease), pregnant women and young children.

People can help prevent the spread of flu. If you don’t feel sick, avoid close contact with sick people. If you are sick, stay home and limit contact with others.

Wash your hands often with soap and water, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash.

People with flu can pass the virus on to others a day before feeling sick and sometimes for about a week after feeling better, according to DHSS, so taking proper precautions is important, even if you don’t have any flu symptoms.

TSP