Flu season is fast approaching, and health officials strongly urge anyone 6 months of age or older to get themselves vaccinated to fend off illness in the coming months. According to the CDC, the season begins in October and usually lasts through May, peaking in January or February in the United States. Vaccines are recommended every year, as the flu changes annually and the human body's immunity to influenza decreases over time.
At a conference in Washington, Department of Health and Human Services assistant secretary Howard Koh reinforced that "Influenza is predictably unpredictable."
The most common variations of the flu are H1N1 viruses, H3N2 viruses, and influenza B viruses. Pregnant women, people 65 and older, and those with asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease are at "high risk" of pneumonia and other illnesses if they contract the flu. Caregivers for high risk people are also advised to take the necessary precautions and seek out flu shots. The CDC notes that it takes two weeks after vaccination for the body to form antibodies against the flu.
Koh asserts, "In 2009-2010, we had a pandemic with thousands hospitalized and many deaths," but optimistically remarked "last year, we set a record for the lowest number of hospitalizations and the shortest influenza season."
The Department of Health official clarifies that now is not the time for apathy. "Even mild seasons can lead to suffering and death."
Koh adds, "People cannot become complacent this season. When it comes to the flu, we cannot look to the past to predict what will happen this season."
Symptoms for the flu include cough/sore throat, head/body aches, fatigue, chills, 100 F or higher fever, runny nose, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Those who experience these symptoms should contact a doctor, who will likely prescribe antiviral or antibiotic medications to head off any serious complications. Flu.gov also suggests getting rest, drinking clear fluids and staying hydrated, using a damp washcloth for comfort, using a humidifier, gargling salt water, and staying under warm blankets to temper chills.
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