HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With influenza cases already reported in Reno County, health officials are encouraging residents to get vaccinated and take precautions as the traditional cold and flu season approaches.
Karen Hammersmith, assistant director of Clinical Services at the Reno County Health Department, said influenza A cases began appearing around the start of the school year, raising concerns about what the coming months could bring.
"We already have seen influenza A," Hammersmith said. "That started right when school started. We started seeing some cases."
Hammersmith said the early activity makes it difficult to predict how severe this year's flu season could become.
"I know that we haven't even gotten into flu season, so that scares me a little bit," she said. "I know that we're not out of the woods, and it's definitely time to get your flu shot."
Hammersmith said Kansas' unusually warm fall weather may have delayed some residents from thinking about flu vaccinations. However, colder temperatures typically bring more people indoors, increasing opportunities for respiratory illnesses to spread.
She emphasized that vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of influenza, even though it does not guarantee someone will avoid becoming infected.
"Nothing is ever going to be 100%, but we do want to do those things to protect you," Hammersmith said.
Influenza can cause high fevers, headaches and respiratory symptoms, with illnesses often lasting five to seven days. Hammersmith said the virus can be particularly dangerous for infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
She also addressed a common misconception that receiving a flu shot can cause influenza.
"That's absolutely not true," Hammersmith said.
She explained that some people experience temporary soreness, headaches or other mild symptoms after vaccination as their immune systems respond and develop antibodies.
Beyond influenza, Hammersmith encouraged residents to remain aware of other respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV.
She said COVID-19 continues to circulate and can pose serious health risks, particularly for older adults and immunocompromised individuals. RSV vaccinations are also available for eligible adults, including those 75 and older and certain younger adults with increased health risks.
Hammersmith said several everyday precautions can help limit the spread of illness.
"One of the number one things a person should do is wash their hands, and that's not just during flu and cold season," she said.
She recommends washing hands frequently with soap and water for 20 to 30 seconds. Hand sanitizer can also be useful when soap and water are unavailable.
Residents who become sick should remain home, particularly if they develop a fever. Hammersmith recommended waiting until someone has been fever-free for at least 24 hours before returning to regular activities.
"If you are ill, stay at home," she said. "Other people don't want to be sick."
The Reno County Health Department offers immunizations throughout the year and accepts both scheduled appointments and walk-ins.
The department is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hammersmith encouraged residents to call ahead when possible to ensure staff availability.
The department accepts insurance and has limited assistance available for uninsured individuals. Vaccinations are also available through local pharmacies and physician offices.
Hammersmith said the most important message for Reno County residents is to continue practicing healthy habits, including eating well, exercising, washing hands, staying home when sick and keeping vaccinations current.