Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health, said the flu is reaching epidemic proportions in the state and our county. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges all individuals who think they are developing symptoms of the flu to reach out to their physicians so they may be able to be treated with antiviral medication to lessen the extent and length of illness from the flu. Early symptoms include sudden onset of fever, cough, muscle aches and headaches. It is important that people begin to take the antiviral medication within the first 48 hours of symptoms.”
Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator, said that many people with the flu or flu symptoms turn to over-the-counter medicines to reduce fever and other symptoms of the flu. Regenye added, “There are many medications available for relief of their symptoms and the choice of what to buy and use can be confusing. Many of these contain acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, either alone or in combination with other medications. There is potential danger when one takes more than one acetaminophen-containing product, takes more than the recommended dose, or consumes alcohol while taking this product. Overdosing on acetaminophen can lead to serious liver injury – liver failure, liver transplant, or even death.”
Regenye continued, “Consumers do need to be aware that there is a recommended daily limit of acetaminophen; dosage recommendations are displayed on the pill or liquid medication bottle. The OCHD encourages people to always read and follow the directions on the label of each medication, whether it is a prescription or over-the counter product. Make sure to double check that you are not ingesting two or more medications containing acetaminophen at the same time. When giving acetaminophen to small children (under 2 years old) parents must check with their healthcare provider for proper dosing instructions. Remember to never give a child an adult dose.”
The Ocean County Health Department encourages everyone to program the phone number of the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System (NJ PIES) at 1-800-222-1222, into their cell, home or office phone, where you can get information and help immediately, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Remember that every minute counts in emergencies.
The OCHD continues to offer flu clinics and you can find the schedule by visiting its website at www.ochd.org or calling 732-341-9700, ext. 7515.
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