Over the past week, cases of influenza in New York State rose by 72 percent, and new cases of influenza were reported in 58 out of 62 counties. In addition, the number of patients hospitalized with laboratory- confirmed influenza was 363, a 41 percent increase from last week. People six months of age and over who have not yet received a flu shot to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Influenza, often referred to as ‘flu’, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Seasonal flu epidemics occur yearly during the colder months. Most people who get sick with flu will have mild illness and will recover in less than two weeks without medical care.
Last year, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) 80,000 people in the U.S. died from flu related causes last year, 185 were children.
People find myriad reasons for avoiding getting flu vaccinations. One of the top obstacles is fear of needles. Other excuses given are the belief that flu shots can cause the flu. This is scientifically impossible. Some discomfort at the point of injection may occur.
The flu vaccine contains dead viruses that activate the immune system of the body making it think an outside agent (the virus) has attacked the body. The immune system produces antibodies to the antigen (dead viruses), which circulate in the body and offer protection against future attacks of flu.
There are also nasal flu inhalers, but these are nowhere as effective as the shots.
Predicting the next year’s flu strains is a crap shoot. Last year it was estimated that the flu vaccine that was prepared was only 40% effective. This is true, but in the case of the 185 children that died, 80% did not receive a flu shot. The odds favor those getting the flu vaccinations.
Health experts also warn that by not getting a flu shot you put others in danger, including family members, friends and co-workers, as a potential carrier
Last week, State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker declared that influenza is prevalent in New York State. This announcement put into effect a regulation requiring that healthcare workers who are not vaccinated against influenza wear surgical or procedure masks in areas where patients are typically present.
Dr. Howard Zucker said, “We strongly encourage anyone who has not yet gotten the flu vaccine to get one immediately to combat this significant threat to public health. Getting vaccinated protects you as well as the people around you, including those who are more vulnerable, like babies and young children, elderly people and people with chronic health conditions.”
In addition to getting a flu shot and staying home when sick, it’s important to practice good hand-hygiene:
Unlike some viruses, influenza is easily killed by soap and hot water.
Wash your hands often with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds to protect yourself from germs and avoid spreading them to others.
Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to use when soap and water are not available. Choose a product with at least 60 percent alcohol.
Do not cough or sneeze into your hands. Instead, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. People with the flu are infectious for up to 7 days after symptoms begin.
People who can get the flu shot:
Different flu shots are approved for people of different ages. Everyone should get a vaccine that is appropriate for their age.
There are inactivated influenza vaccines that are approved for people as young as 6 months of age.
Some vaccines are only approved for adults. For example, the recombinant influenza vaccine is for people aged 18 years and older, and the adjuvanted and high-dose inactivated vaccines are for people aged 65 years and older.
Flu shots are recommended for pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions.
People who SHOULD NOT get the flu shot:
Children younger than 6 months of age are too young to get a flu shot.
People with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine. This might include gelatin, antibiotics, or other ingredients.
If you have questions, or concerns, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she can help decide whether vaccination is right for you, and select the best vaccine for your situation.
