San Juan County Health Officer Frank James, MD, reports that flu is starting to spread in San Juan County, especially on Orcas Island.

In the past week, between 10 and 15 percent of the students at Orcas Elementary School have been absent, suffering flu-like symptoms, and other Orcas Island schools are experiencing increasing absence rates.

The State Health Department reports that all strains of the flu detected so far are “well-covered” by this year’s flu vaccine. There is an adequate supply of the vaccine still available in San Juan County and health officials hare urging residents – especially toddlers and school age children, and people who come into contact with children – to get flu shots as soon as possible. Vaccine begins to provide protection after approximately one week and reaches maximum protection in about two weeks.

Health officials strongly encourage anyone suffering flu-like symptoms to stay home from work or school. Studies show that early in an outbreak the average child will infect four other people and sick adults will spread the disease to two others.

Dr. James also reminds people to cover all coughs and wash their hands frequently to avoid spreading the disease.