According the the CDC in Atlanta, the virus that is most prevalent across the nation is not covered by this year’s flu shot. “Right now, about half of the influenza ‘A’ which is the H3N1 virus, and most of influenza ‘B’ are not covered well by this year’s flu vaccine,” said Dr. Nathan Newman, Medical Director of Solantic. Doctor Newman is hopeful we’ll have a flu season like 2003, the last time flu shots missed the virus mark.
“Maybe you’ll have an increase in influenza-like illnesses. Coughs and colds and flu-like symptoms, but a greatly reduced rate of hospitalizations even with a mismatched flu virus,” said Dr. Newman. The basics of good hygiene also come into play. Cover up all coughs, and wash your hands often being sure to thoroughly scrub, not just wetting your hands. And if caught early enough, there are products like Tamiflu to make a difference. “By taking the medications, you can reduce the duration of the flu symptoms as well as reduce the symptoms themselves,” said Dr. Newman. Solantic’s Medical Director tells First Coast News there’s more good news if you got a flu shot from Solantic this year. “If you received a flu shot here at Solantic and you’re currently experiencing flu symptoms. Come in. Get an examination. We’ll give you a five-minute test. If the test is positive, we will cover the cost of your evaluation and test!” Source: First Coast News
Original Publication Date: February 18, 2008
Feb 19
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