Does you or someone you know have the flu? You're not alone. This year is shaping up to be one of the worst flu seasons on record, and already hundreds of cases have been reported all over the country.
Last winter, flu cases continued to be reported for three months after the peak in the first week of January. This year, cases appear to be dropping somewhat, but flu-like illnesses are on the rise.
"There's so much other illness out there that mimics influenza," vice president of medical affairs for Reid Hospital, Thomas Huth says. "The majority of people who are sick ... don't have influenza." Huth recommends taking precautions against the flu and other illnesses by practicing good hygiene and getting a flu shot. "It's not too late," he said. "It's just a part of the normal package of things you do to protect yourself from the flu."
This year's vaccine, however, might not be as effective against the flu as it has been in the past. This year's H3N2 strain underwent a significant genetic mutation after the vaccine was developed, and as such, the vaccine is not able to fully protect patients in every case.
Many may wonder why they should bother getting a flu shot if it won't protect against H3N2. But the vaccine includes, and is effective against, several different strains of the influenza virus. Children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems should still get a flu shot to protect against the other strains, even if its protection against H3N2 is only minimal.
The flu shot will not protect you from other flu-like illnesses, however, and these illnesses have been on the rise this season as well. "The concern really is about those other viruses as much as it is about influenza," Huth says.
Good respiratory hygiene is another key to protecting youself from the flu. When you cough or sneeze, use your upper arm instead of your hands to cover your mouth. Sneeze into tissues whenever possible, and immediately throw that tissue away. Wash your hands regularly and especially after you sneeze or cough into your hands. If you do believe you have the flu, avoid close contact with others and stay home from school and work to prevent the spread of the illness.
The flu virus is rampaging across the country, and while the vaccine doesn't provide perfect protection against every strain, getting the yearly vaccine and practicing good respiratory hygiene is your best defense against the flu virus regardless of the year.
