RMH to close flu clinic

Due to a significant decrease in influenza activity in the area, the RMH Flu Care Clinic will be closed after Friday, Nov. 13. The clinic will reopen when and if flu activity increases, according to Terri Huffman, director, Primary Care Services.

“Flu activity typically hits in several waves,” Huffman explained. “We are especially concerned about the prevalence of H1N1, which has had two significant peaks in our area this year—one in April and the other in October. At this point we are experiencing less flu activity and seeing fewer patients in both the RMH Emergency Department and in the clinic. But we would expect another peak to hit a bit later in the season and we will reopen the clinic if and when the situation warrants.”

RMH constantly monitors the flu situation both locally and statewide, she said. The Flu Care Clinic phone line will be updated weekly, if not more often, and anyone needing information about whether the clinic is open may call 437-0440.

Patient with flu symptoms who are pregnant, under age 4 or have underlying health problems should seek care from their primary care provider or, if that is not possible, at the RMH Emergency Department.

Huffman said the community’s response to public health appeals to use good cough etiquette, practice good hand hygiene and keep healthy and sick people apart has no doubt been instrumental in helping to prevent further spread of the flu.

“The community should be commended for significantly impacting the incidence of influenza by practicing good hygiene and social distancing—staying home from work or school when sick,” she said. “We also appreciate community members complying with our requests to limit hospital visitors for the safety of our staff, patients and other guests. All of these efforts make a huge difference in containing a communicable illness such as influenza.”

Huffman cautioned that people need to continue these practices to prevent the spread of flu. She also emphasized the importance of getting both regular flu and H1N1 immunizations when they are available.

“Complacency is our worst enemy,” she said. “We need to keep our guard up as we head into the holiday season to ensure people stay healthy and avoid the flu.”