Flu Season Update; Get Vaccinated
By Ronald Nahass, M.D, infectious disease specialist at Somerset Medical Center
It’s the beginning of December, which means one thing: a season of that annual bug is about to be at its peak. Last season, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported that it sent more than 12,000 people to the hospital. Yet each and every year, from October to April, we usually know someone who has it and did not get vaccinated against it. What is this easily-avoidable reoccurrence we are talking about?
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The flu.
While many people know the virus is spreading, only 46 percent of Americans got the flu shot last year. Because the flu vaccine consists of parts of the virus, most patients believe the immunization will make them sick or more likely to catch the flu. It’s time to lay this myth to rest.
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Seasonal influenza is caused by one of several strains of influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs, causing some to get sick for days and can even be deadly. The flu is easily spread when the infected person coughs or sneezes; you can even spread the virus to others before you show any symptoms.
There are several steps you can take to prevent yourself from getting sick and/or spreading the virus.
o If you are well:
o Visit your physician or hospital and receive the flu shot now. The flu shot is essential if:
o You are over the age of 65
o Have a chronic health condition that can be aggravated by the flu
o Are around infants less than 6 months of age
o Are around individuals with a chronic condition or compromised immune system
o Consider your overall health and wellness in your life to prevent the disease. Wash your hands often. Get enough rest, eat well and exercise.
o If you show signs of illness:
o Cover your mouth when sneezing or cover.
o Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
o Consult your primary care provider to receive proper treatment to the flu or norovirus.
o If you are seriously ill:
o If you are exhibiting severe symptoms such as vomiting, difficulty breathing, dizziness or disorientations, go to the emergency room if you cannot reach your primary doctor.
o Seek emergency care if you have an underlying medical condition such as emphysema or COPD that is made worse by flu symptoms.
Hospitals like Somerset Medical Center are prepared to handle the high numbers of flu and norovirus cases during this time, and tend to take special precautions to limit the spread of the illness. Somerset Medical Center requires all employees, volunteers and physicians to have the flu vaccine. Family members are asked to refrain from visiting patients at the hospital if they are experiencing any symptoms of the flu.
