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N.D.- Just as surprising as the number of warm days this winter is the number of flu cases so far this season.

In fact, according to Dr. Katie O’Brien with Oakes Community Hospital, there is no real activity for influenza anywhere in the state of North Dakota.

“We’re seeing more cases of strep throat, as well as non-influenza respiratory illnesses.” says Dr. O’Brien. “It’s more coughs, colds, sneezes and low-grade fevers, and even though there isn’t any flu activity yet, it is flu season.”

Strep throat is the most significant illness currently being reported in the area, and it consists of a real sore throat, along with a fever, and some people suffer from body aches. You can better determine if you have strep by looking at your throat in the mirror with a flashlight, and noticing for any white patches on the back of your throat. If untreated, strep can lead to an infection on the heart valves.

As far as treatment goes, penicillin is the best when it comes to strep throat. As for the flu, you can’t treat a virus, but you can get a flu shot beforehand to limit the effects of the flu, and shots are still plentifully available.