Despite milder temperatures, health officials have seen an increase in flu cases over the last few weeks.

We urge Lafayette County residents to get a flu shot, wash your hands and refrain from touching your face. Don’t eat or drink after your neighbor, and remind children to cover their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. Doing so will lower your risk of getting sick, and passing on any kind of infection to those you come in contact with.

If you have symptoms like fever, dry cough, aches or congestion, contact your doctor immediately and ask about taking Tamiflu, which fights the virus and may shorten the time you are sick. Doing so will address your symptoms and aid in your recovery.

This flu season, be intentional about the way you monitor your health. Remember germs are spread through touching door handles, shaking hands and other every day activities you may do without thinking.

Those who have questions about symptoms should give their family’s physician a call. Proactivity in dealing with flu season is sure to decrease Lafayette County’s number of outbreaks and keep our residents healthy.