What's Going Around - January 2nd - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

What's Going Around - January 2nd

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  • What's Going Around

  • Wednesday, May 15 2013 11:45 AM EDT2013-05-15 15:45:20 GMT
    While cold and flu season is widely discussed, pneumonia season is quickly gaining the spotlight. One in 20 dies from the lung disease each year, and it's what's going around this week. What is pneumonia? Pneumonia
    While cold and flu season is widely discussed, pneumonia season is quickly gaining the spotlight. One in 20 dies from the lung disease each year, and it's what's going around this week.
  • Wednesday, May 8 2013 9:06 AM EDT2013-05-08 13:06:30 GMT
    We all have our aches in our bellies and backs from time to time, but these pains can also be signs of gallstones. Dr. Hatem Mourad from Coastal Urgent Care and Family Medicine warns that gallstones are
    Dr. Hatem Mourad from Coastal Urgent Care and Family Medicine warns that gallstones are what's going around.
Bay County, Fla. -

Dr. Hatem Mourad from Coastal Urgent Care and Family Medicine says pneumonia is going around.

Dr. Mourad says pneumonia can cause the following symptoms:

  • Cough
  • Coughing up mucus
  • Fever
  • Chest pain
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Shaking
  • Chills

Dr. Mourad says you should see a doctor as soon as possible if you have those symptoms.  The doctor will do a physical exam and possibly a chest x-ray.  Blood tests and lab tests on the mucus can also be helpful in diagnosing pneumonia. 

Dr. Mourad explains that treatment includes:

  • Antibiotics
  • Oxygen to help with breathing
  • Plenty of rest
  • Drinking plenty of fluids
  • Fever-reducing medicines

Dr. Mourad says to prevent pneumonia:

  • Avoid germs
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water
  • Use alcohol hand rubs
  • Certain vaccines