Philly and the Flu

All around the Northeast region there is talk of the flu virus; there's been a surge of admittances into hospitals and doctors' offices of patients infected with the flu. Doctors, like John Russell of Abington Memorial Hospital, concede that it's an epidemic. "There are a ton of people sick right now," he states; however, he doesn't seem to think it's as bad as it could be. At least not yet.

According to physicians, it doesn't seem to be affecting people as harshly as anticipated. However, it did start much earlier on in the season than was originally predicted. Along with other viruses that seem to be circulating in the Philadelphia area – like the rhinovirus and a norovirus that's been fairly prevalent, doctors don't think the worst is over yet. Since it started so early and didn't quite reach the intensity it's capable of, the epidemic might peak this month or next. After all, the number of flu patients has remained consistent.

Avoiding getting sick when you're surrounded by others who are is fairly difficult. In schools and workplaces in an area like Philadelphia, heating and ventilation is a big culprit – rather than fresh air circulating through crowded buildings, we keep the windows shut to keep warm in the winter. Therefore, there's bound to be a higher concentration of your neighbor's germs. As a preventative measure, let fresh air circulate through your home, office, or classroom whenever possible. And, of course, during flu season more than ever, be sure to wipe down commonly touched items, like keyboards, with Lysol wipes. Carry around a personal bottle of hand sanitizer as well – better safe than sorry!