HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – Illnesses are on the rise says the Ottawa County Department of Public Health.
Kristina Weighmink, Communications Specialist for the Department says schools, childcare and healthcare providers are reporting the flu and viral gastroenteris (stomach flu) in the community. An online map is available for locations where you can get a flu shot.
Weighmink says the number one thing people can do is avoid contact with people who are sick. “Stay home if you are sick and always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing. Most important is to clean you hands often. Hand washing is very important to prevent the spread of disease.
Other ways to prevent sickness is to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as germs are spread when a person touches a surface or object that is contaminated with germs and then touches his eyes, nose and mouth. Also when you are sick avoid preparing food for others. Clean and disinfect surfaces or objects that may be contaminated with germs.
Read the 2016-17 Ottawa County Influenza Surveillance Report online.
