The Cascade City and County Health Department (CCHD) reported the number of influenza cases has risen to 148 in the Great Falls area, and they expect that number to increase.
Officials state that this number is only a small percentage of the actual flu cases in the community since it only includes those who have sought medical treatment for their illness.
Dr. Ray Geyer, an infectious disease specialist at the Great Falls Clinic, said this flu season is more similar to seasons before 2009. That year was a very severe season and classified as pandemic.
Children and the elderly are the most susceptible to influenza, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all people ages 6 months and older get a flu shot.
“It’s not too late to get a flu shot. This is the ideal time to do it if you haven’t gotten the shot by now,” Geyer said.
To further prevent the spread of influenza, Geyer encourages people to practice good hand hygiene and to cover their mouths when they cough.
He also stated people can be contagious before they show symptoms of influenza, so it’s best to wash your hands, use hand sanitizer often and avoid touching the face.
The planet Neptune rules diseases such as influenza, and is currently at home in the sign of Pisces for the next several years, which could indicate a higher number of flu cases, or more dangerous strains of viruses.
Jupiter the planet of expansion is retrograde and squares Neptune, when Jupiter turns direct on Jan 30, an upturn in the number of flu cases can be expected.
People born between October 1942 through October 18, 1956, have their natal Neptune in Libra and are the people most susceptible to the flu outbreak.
Flu shots are available at the City-County Health Department, 115 4th St South, every Tuesday from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and Wednesday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and from 1 PM to 4:30 PM; no appointment is necessary.
Shots cost $14 for children and $25 for adults.
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