Ohio Department of Aging talks flu prevention

The Ohio Department of Health recently reported that over 4000 people have been hospitalized during this year's flu season.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that Ohio is currently seeing widespread flu activity.

Older adults see increased risks of complications from the flu which can lead to serious illness and even death.

Officials with the Ohio Department of Aging say older Ohioans and those that care for them need to take all steps possible to help stop the spread of the illness.

Flu symptoms include: fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Flu prevention tips:

- Frequently wash your hands for 20 seconds or more

- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when you are unable to wash your hands

- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands

- Get plenty of sleep and manage stress

- Eat well and stay as physically active as possible

- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

- Avoid contact with people who are sick and things they have touched