In response to the public health emergency declared by New York State due to the severe flu season, Lakeside Health System has taken measures to accommodate the rising number of incoming patients due to the flu epidemic. The health system is in a position to accept patients who require emergency care while maintaining minimized Emergency Department wait times for these patients, according to a press release.
With 20,000 reported cases of flu, a public health state of emergency has been declared on January 16. Five weeks ahead of the typical flu season, the number of flu cases is four times that of last year’s total at this time. The Center for Disease Control forecasts this season to be the worst in ten years.
Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms can be seen at Lakeside’s Urgent Care in Spencerport or at the Lakeside Hospital Emergency Department in Brockport.
Unlike symptoms of a common cold, flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and start with an abrupt onset of fever, headache, fatigue, and body aches. A list of flu symptoms include:
•Fever greater than 100 degrees
•Severe aches and pains in the joints and muscles and around the eyes
•Generalized weakness
•Ill appearance with warm, flushed skin, and red, watery eyes
•Headache
•Dry cough
•Sore throat and watery discharge from your nose
According to the press release issued January 12 by the State Health Department, all New Yorkers who have not already received their influenza vaccine are strongly advised to do so immediately. For those who have not yet received a flu vaccination, Lakeside Health System’s pharmacy is providing the vaccine. No appointment is necessary.
