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CLEVELAND – There have been four flu-related deaths in Cuyahoga County in the first week of the new year, the Cuyahoga County Board of Health reported.

Two of the victims are between 45 and 64 years old; one victim is between 65 and 74 and one victim is between 75 and 84 years of age.

The board of health said that 291 flu-related hospitalizations were reported since Dec. 1, with 190 occurring in the past three weeks.

Most people hospitalized with the flu are between 40 and 69 years old.

To schedule a flu show, go to www.ccbh.net/flu

Here are some easy home remedies that can help ease symptoms of the virus, according to information from Flu.gov and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Congestion
Decongestants can ease discomfort from stuffy noses, sinuses, ears and chests, but be sure to talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about which kind is right for you.

Stay hydrated. It’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Other liquids are OK, but avoid coffee, tea with caffeine and alcoholic beverages that may cause dehydration.

Scratchy throat
Cough medicine and cough drops can temporarily relieve coughing and sore throat.

Eat hot chicken soup. The ingredients, such as pepper, garlic, and hot curry powder, help clear congestion in your mouth, throat and lungs. It’s also recommended to add spice to your meals.

Fever and aching body
Fevers and aches can be treated with a pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, for example), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin), or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS, Aleve). If you have kidney disease or stomach problems, check with your health care provider before taking any.

Also, stay in bed and rest. Getting plenty of rest is important to get your immune system back to normal and gives your body time to heal.

Experts say these tips won’t necessarily cure the flu, they just help to minimize the symptoms and make you more comfortable.

The best form of defense against the flu is the flu shot. It’s covered by most insurance companies.

Read more os the source at http://www.newsnet5.com/news/local-news/oh-cuyahoga/4-people-have-died-from-flu-in-cuyahoga-county