Realizing that people are turning to technology more to keep tabs on their health, a new website is launching in Phoenix to help track flu trends.
When you enter a zip code on Communidy.com, it shows where the flu level is in your county, breaks it down by age group based on real-time data from local physicians and helps connect you with nearby doctors.
Flu is most dangerous for the very young and very old because of weakened immune systems, but right now the largest group reporting the illness in Maricopa County is middle-aged adults between 25 and 64 years old.
The folks at Communidy figure that group is spiking because that's who is most stubborn about staying home from work, but maybe wouldn't if they saw the trend and realized they likely had the flu instead of a cold.
"Don't be a tough guy and try to power through work because you might have a pregnant coworker or someone who takes care of an elderly relative and now you've exposed them," said Cheryl Miller from Communidy.
Additionally, it's not too late to get a flu shot.
Doctors remind patients while symptoms can overlap, there are telltale signs to help you identify the flu versus a cold.
You likely have a cold if you're sneezing, have an itchy and runny nose, are congested and have a light fever.
You likely have the flu if you have a sudden high fever, body aches and chills, and a strong cough.
Most people need fluids and sleep to heal.
The Arizona Department of Health advises you see a doctor if your fever above 101 degrees lasts for more than three to four days.
If you experience extreme dizziness, can't keep fluids down for 24 hours, become incoherent or have a seizure, it's time to go to the emergency room.
