Influenza Spreading Through Western ND | Video

Evan Kruegel | 1/3/2013

The flu is spreading quickly throughout North Dakota, but it`s especially prevalent in the western part of the state. "It`s spread by respiratory droplets. We all cough and sneeze a lot, we frequently don`t wash our hands as often as we should, and we tend to be in very close quarters particularly in the North here,” said family practitioner Robert Kemp.

More than eight percent of reported flu cases statewide have been reported in Williams and McKenzie counties, where less than five percent of the state`s population resides. Kemp says that could be attributed to the confined areas many people are living in. "If it gets into a man camp, because they are living in tighter quarters, I think it would tend to spread more readily."

He says the stressful jobs in the region could also be playing in to the large amount of cases. "It sure can. I think if you`re tired and worn out your immune system isn`t as effective and then you pick things up more easily."

Employees at White Drug pharmacy have given more than 350 flu shots this year, and they say it`s the easiest way to fight the virus. It`s quick, it’s easy, and it`s really quite pain free. If you haven`t had a shot and you`re living in close quarters, Kemp says you need to be especially careful. "In essence, isolate yourself. Stay in your room, maybe eat in your room."

His best advice? Go get a shot. It takes 15 minutes, and could save you a few weeks in bed.

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