Often times people can still get the flu even after getting a vaccine because it may work against a certain flu virus that is circulating. As of January 21, there have been 4,317 lab-confirmed flu-associated hospitalizations this season, up drastically from the 2,864 reported through January 14.
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The peak months for the flu are December through March, with February typically being the most active.
Flu-related hospitalizations continued to rise as well.
While the illness keeps spreading, Lynette Brammer describes this year’s flu season as far from severe when compared to previous years.
A total of 292 cases were reported last week, according to the latest report from the North Dakota Health Department. Public Health still has flu vaccine available for children and a limited supply available for adults.
A child who had underlying medical conditions has become the first flu-related death in San Bernardino County this year, the Department of Public Health reported Thursday. Flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus, which affects the nose, throat and lungs.
In a news release today the Kansas Department of Health and Environment said, “Kansas is now experiencing widespread influenza activity, with increased influenza cases seen in most regions of the state”. Judy MacDonald, chief medical officer of health with Alberta Health Services (AHS) for the Calgary Zone.
These extra precautions are in force at all Mercy Health-Youngstown hospitals – St. Elizabeth Youngstown, St. Elizabeth Boardman and St. Joseph Warren – and will remain in effect until influenza subsides, he said.
Since July 1 past year, Taiwan has reported 282 flu cases in which patients suffered severe complications, the CDC said, adding that the H3N2 virus has been the dominant strain. One of the advantages of this approach is that by using live viruses, the protection is broader and more long term. Normally about 2 percent of emergency room visits are due to such sicknesses. However, it is only 40 to 60 percent effective, so doctors recommend double doses especially for chronically ill, pregnant mothers whose children can not receive the vaccine until they turn 6-months-old, and elderly individuals. “Should we become informed that hospitals are inundated with patients of any acuity levels, NCTTRAC would begin coordinating with appropriate agencies to mitigate their surge issues”. Symptoms include diarrhea, throwing up, nausea, stomach pain, fever, headache and body aches.
Also, mothers of newborns need a flu shot to help protect their infants, who can’t be vaccinated until they are 6 months old.
According to the CDC, every year in the United States, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized because of the flu.
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The flu usually lasts five to seven days, but high risk patients should be in communication with their doctor regarding recovery, according to Edwards.
