FRANKLIN COUNTY >> Summit Health officials are encouraging people with flu-like symptoms to avoid visiting loved ones at the county's two hospitals in Chambersburg and Waynesboro.
As the number of reported influenza cases is on the rise throughout the state, officials are concerned about increased risk of spreading it.
"Visitors are a valuable compliment to patient care, but if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, it's best to just stay home and avoid spreading the flu to people in the hospital," said Ericka Kalp, director of epidemiology and infection prevention for Summit Health.
"Precautions like this can help limit the spread of influenza and other viruses."
Kalp gave several tips for those exhibiting flu or flu-like symptoms and recommends the best remedy is to stay home, rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Kalp noted that most people with the flu will have mild illness and won't need medical care or antiviral medicine.
For severe illness, Kalp said you should seek emergency care immediately.
In children, these include fast breathing, trouble breathing, bluish skin color, decreased interaction, fever with a rash, not drinking enough fluids or symptoms that seem to improve, but then return with a fever or worse cough.
For adults, these symptoms include difficulty breathing, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion or severe or persistent vomiting.
"If you get sick and experience any of the following symptoms, go to the emergency room right away," Kalp said. "Those at a high risk of developing complications from the flu should contact their health care provider to decide whether or not they need to be examined if they have flu symptoms.
Children, seniors, and people with chronic health conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe complications caused by the flu, according to Kalp.
For more information on flu symptoms and prevention, visit SummitHealth.org/PreventFlu.