With an increase in flu cases in the Gorge, health officials say it’s important for those who are sick with the flu to know how to take care of themselves and how to avoid spreading the flu to others.  North Central Public Health District health officer Dr. Mimi McDonell says most people will recover in a couple of weeks, and if they have mild illness the best thing to do is to stay home, rest and avoid others.  If you are at high risk or concerned about your illness, call your healthcare provider.  Adults having a hard time breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting, purple or blue discoloration of the lips, or seizures should be seen promptly.  Children should be seen urgently if they have fast or troubled breathing, bluish skin color, are not waking up or interacting, become so irritable that they do not want to be held, or a fever with a rash.  Infants should get medical help right away if they are unable to eat, have a hard time breathing, do not have tears when they cry, or have many fewer wet diapers than normal.  Health officials do say the most effective way to avoid catching the flu is vaccination.