WHITTIER - PIH Health in Whittier has expanded its urgent care hours in light of a severe flu season.The urgent care facility at 15725 E. Whittier Blvd. is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. PIH Health also obtained a 90-day permit to operate an "alternative care site" (tents) outside the hospital's emergency room. Patients with illnesses such as sore throats, rash, minor sprains, minor abrasions and flu-like symptoms will be triaged and then cared for in the tents. The tents were necessary due to the influx of patients who have arrived at the emergency room with flu-like symptoms. The tents are staffed daily from noon to midnight. Hospital officials also recommended residents receive a flu shot, especially those with chronic health conditions. Residents are also encouraged to get plenty of sleep, exercise, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, eat nutritious food and practice the good hygiene tips listed below: If you get sick, stay home from work and seek medical care. Also limit contact with others. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Then wash your hands. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. Avoid contact with sick people.

********** Published: Febuary 7, 2013 - Volume 11 - Issue 43