Contributed Photo / Richard Moody, M.D.Q: Is this expected to be a bad season for the flu?
A: Influenza has already arrived, and looking at the recent season in the Southern Hemisphere, experts are predicting a severe season. If you haven’t been vaccinated already, make this a priority. The vaccine is available at most physicians’ offices, pharmacies and even local grocery stores, so it’s never been more convenient to get protected from the potentially deadly virus.
Combating the yearly influenza outbreak is a moving target because the various strains are continuously mutating. The two most common strains are Type A and Type B. Type A is usually the most severe, potentially life-threatening of the two.
Influenza in Tennessee is currently at “widespread” status, according to the Centers for Disease Control, so the risk of contracting the virus and passing it along to those who are most vulnerable – children and the elderly – is significant.
Vaccination is the best defense. This season’s vaccination protects against two types of the A virus, and one or two types of the B virus. But because the virus is constantly changing, there’s still an outside chance of catching the flu even with immunization. However, studies show that vaccines drastically reduce illness severity even if you contract influenza following vaccination.
If you contract the flu, you may experience fever, muscle aches, coughing and headaches. In the worst cases, difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, severe weakness and high fevers may result, requiring hospitalization. If you develop symptoms seek medical care, as treatment options are available but are most effective if given early. Preventative medication is also available if you are in close proximity to someone sick with influenza.
In addition to getting the vaccine, you can reduce the chances of contracting the flu by washing your hands regularly and avoiding physical contact with ill people. If you have specific questions about influenza and the flu vaccine, consult your primary-care physician.
– Dr. Richard Moody; Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society member