The Cattaraugus County health department has reported a total of 50 confirmed cases of flu so far this season, the majority of which are of the H3N2 strain of swine flu last seen in these numbers back in 2009.
The Pennsylvania side of the border is in a little better shape with 19 cases reported in McKean County and 14 in Warren. Potter County, on the other hand, has also reported 50 cases, and the state characterizes the spread of flu in the state as “widespread.”
Bradford Regional Medical Center and Olean General Hospital both announced efforts to slow the spread of flu last week, including restricting visitation by people under 17 and giving of masks to those who arrive at the hospital showing signs of respiratory illness. Area schools are also taking steps to fight flu, and encourage parents to keep sick kids at home.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health recommends basic steps to avoid the flu, including washing your hands, not touching your eyes and nose, staying home when ill, and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Most importantly, officials advise those who have not gotten this year’s flu shot to do so as soon as possible.