Flu cases rapidly increase in Va.

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) - According to the Va. Department of Health, flu cases in the state are skyrocketing each week, especially in schools.

In a news release, Acting State Commissioner Maureen E Dempsey said flu outbreaks have increased from two per week to 28 and norovirus outbreaks increased from three to 11.

The Dept. of Health released the following guidelines to prevent illness:

• Stay home when sick. Stay home if you or your child has a fever. You should be fever free, without the use of fever reducing-medicines (like Tylenol), before you return to school or work.
• Cover your cough.
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly.
• If you are sick, do not visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, or any other facility housing those in frail health.
• If you go to a doctor for a respiratory illness, be sure to cover your cough and wash your hands. You can use a tissue to cover your cough and then dispose of it in a trashcan and wash your hands – each time. You might be asked to wait in a separate area and/or to wear a mask in the waiting room.