By Meghan McCormick
Cases of the common cold and stomach viruses have been reported in Cleveland County, but so far no confirmed reports of influenza, according to health officials in Cleveland County.
Amanda James, Cleveland County Health Department public health educator, said so far people suffering from the common cold, strep throat and upper respiratory virus have sought treatment at the health center.
"No cases of the flu reported in Cleveland County or the state," James said.
Norman Regional Hospital emergency room physician Marshall Rea, D.O., said people have made their way to the hospital looking for relief from common cold symptoms such as head congestion and fever. Rea hasn't seen any flu patients yet, mainly those suffering from colds and sinus infections.
"The trend will be upward in winter months," Rea said.
He said emergency room physicians are starting to see an increase in upper respiratory infections and pneumonia. A gastrointestinal virus also has made its way through Norman, but Rea said the bug is starting to decrease.
Rea said he expects to see more cases of respiratory illnesses in the months to come.
"We usually peak out in January, February and March," he said.
Rea said people can take precautions and help prevent these illnesses.
"It's important to keep a balanced lifestyle and meet daily needs," he said.
Rea recommends people eat nutritious meals, keeping in mind the four food groups.
"Stay hydrated and wash your hands, especially if you're in contact with people that are ill," he said.
Rea said it's important for a person to seek medical attention if they cannot keep fluids down, have a fever greater than 102 degrees, suffer from any significant shortness of breath or develop coughing.
A few reports of strep throat, colds and stomach viruses have popped up in Norman Public Schools.
Sharon Howard, NPS health services coordinator, said students have come down with illnesses ranging from strep throat to sinus infections.
"We have some sinusitis," Howard said. "Nobody that I know has reported the flu."
Howard said having nurses and health assistants in Norman schools has helped keep an eye on illness rates. Each high school has a nurse to treat students, licensed practical nurses are placed at middle schools and part-time health assistants care for elementary students.
"We've had a slight increase with people going home with GI stuff. Other than that I haven't heard a large number of absences," Howard said.
She said students and teachers are encouraged to wash their hands and schools are cleaned with disinfectants.
Washington Elementary principal Dr. Linda Parsons said it's been common for students to suffer from allergies, asthma and colds.
"It has kind of died down," Parsons said. "We had a stomach bug and it seems to have gotten more under control."
She said the school is preparing for flu season, which is right around the corner.
Meghan McCormick 366-3539 mmccormick@normantranscript.com
