I am writing to alert the congregation that the flu season is here and I recommend that we individually take precautions to avoid getting sick or infecting others.

According to an article published in Patch, West Orange, NJ flu cases in New Jersey during the week ending December 20 totaled 11,472, up from 6,840 the week prior.  Flu activity has been classified as “very high” by the CDC. “Hospitalizations in New Jersey with a respiratory illness have increased 8 percent from Dec.6 to Dec 20 according to the NJDOH” as written in Patch.

I, personally have just recovered from the flu which I suspect was contracted at a funeral I attended.  Four of five members of my daughter’s family are now experiencing the flu, also the result of attending the same funeral.  A physician friend told me that the flu is “all over”.

According to UP to Date, a respected on-line medical text for medical professionals, patients at increased risk include adults 65 years old and older, pregnant women up to 2 weeks post partum, Black persons, Hispanic or Latino persons and patients with the following conditions: asthma, chronic lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, severe obesity and the immunocompromised.

The virus is generally spread person-to-person “when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks…”  Transmission can also occur if a person touches an infected surface and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

According to the New Jersey Department of Health the best prevention tools are as follows: “Get Vaccinated, Mask when sick, Wash hands or use hand sanitizer, Cover coughs and sneezes, Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, Avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose.”

My personal advice is that if you attend services wear a mask and follow the guidelines listed above.