Flu is in New Ulm

By RON LARSEN

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- New Ulm Medical Center reported two confirmed cases of influenza, the first of the flu season, over the weekend.

However, a Medical Center spokesperson said the particular strain of flu could not be determined.

A check of several area school systems did not show any indication of flu activity in the schools.

"We haven't seen any signs of influenza as yet," said Renee Peterson, school nurse for the New Ulm Public Schools. "Absenteeism hasn't increased, and no one has come in with symptoms."

A spokesperson for St. Mary's High School and Grade School in Sleepy Eye said they're seeing "nothing more than the usual in attendance." A spokesperson for Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School said, "I can tell you by our rosters, we're OK yet."

With flu vaccine having run out in Brown County, residents were reminded of precautions that can be taken, in the absence of vaccine, to protect oneself against the virus.

Tips for avoiding the flu include:

°Washing your hands often.

°Keeping your hands away from your nose, eyes and mouth.

°Strengthening resistance with a good diet, plenty of rest and regular exercise.

°Not sharing personal items like towels, washcloths, silverware, cups, glasses, straws or razors.

°Avoiding crowds where you're more likely to encounter flu virus.

°Not exposing infants unnecessarily to crowds or close contact with other family members who may have been exposed.

The first signs of flu include a fever of 101 to 103 degrees, chills, sweats, muscle aches and headaches.