Do you remember last year’s flu season? Well, it’s time to prepare for the next one.
Last year was the worst flu season we’ve had in four years. Right around the holidays, there was a sharp increase in Influenza A, and more people than usual needed to go to the hospital. It could not have come at a worse time.
During last year’s flu season, almost 17,000 positive tests were reported to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and 83 percent were positive for Influenza A. Last year’s flu shot was less effective than usual, because one of the A “strains,” H3N2, changed genetically. The shot was only about 20 percent effective in keeping people from having to seek medical treatment for the flu. In most years, the vaccine is 50-60 percent effective.
In addition, influenza A has become resistant to common antiviral medications used to treat early flu illness. These two factors made the last flu season tough, especially for vulnerable groups like older adults.
The good news is this year’s flu shot is expected to be more effective. It will better target the virus’ protein coats and it is important to get one every year, not just to protect yourself, but your family, too.
“We want to emphasize that even healthy people should be vaccinated because they spread the flu to those at higher risk, such as the elderly, or those with diabetes, asthma, cancer, and other chronic diseases,” said Ed Singer, the newly appointed Health Officer for Carroll County.
It’s important to remember that you can’t get the flu from the flu shot — if you get sick after getting a flu shot, it just means you were exposed to the flu before the vaccine could start working. It takes about two weeks to become effective, so the sooner you get the shot, the better.
The flu shot is available in many locations. The Health Department is no longer able to offer flu shot clinics, but you can go to your doctor, or find a flu shot near you by using the Flu Vaccine Finder at www.flu.gov. Most insurance, including Medicare and Medical Assistance, should pay for one flu shot each season, without deductibles or copay.
There are different types of flu shots available. Here are some tips on what type of flu shot might work best for you. But it’s most important just to get the shot.
* The common trivalent flu shot protects against three strains of flu — two Type A and one Type B.
* The Health Department recommends the quadrivalent shot. This protects you against 4 strains of virus — two Type A and two Type B.
* The “High-Dose” shot looks and feels like a regular flu shot, but it contains four times the amount of antigen. It is for people age 65 and over. It may cost more than the regular flu shot. Ask your doctor if it is the right choice for you.
* The “short needle” or intra-dermal shot uses a smaller volume of vaccine, so it may be less painful. It is only approved for adults ages 18 to 64.
* For people allergic to eggs, there is also an egg-free shot called Flucelvax.
* The FluMist nasal spray flu vaccine contains four flu strains and is approved for use in people ages 2 to 49. The Health Department offers free FluMist in cooperation with the school system for kids in Carroll County Public Schools, though clinics will be later than usual this year due to a supply issue. Parents are reminded that they must return the consent form for their children to participate.
* Children ages 6 months to 8 years who have not previously had a flu shot or mist need two doses of vaccine, at least four weeks apart. This helps the vaccine work.
The Health Department offers some additional tips to stay healthy this flu season:
* Wash your hands often and well. Soap and water is best, but sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol can help when you can’t wash.
* Stay home when you’re sick. Stop the spread of the flu, and get better faster.
* Most people with the flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral medication. They need fluids and rest.
* Most common flu symptoms are fever, aches, cough and tiredness; children may have diarrhea or vomiting.
* Pay attention to serious symptoms such as trouble breathing, dizziness and confusion, chest pain or severe vomiting.
* If you are in a high-risk group and develop flu symptoms, call your doctor. High-risk groups include seniors, children, people with chronic illness and pregnant women.
* Be persistent. You may have to call more than one pharmacy to find antivirals or vaccines.
For more information, call the nursing bureau at the Carroll County Health Department at 410-876-4900.
Dr. Henry Taylor is the Deputy Health Officer for the Carroll County Health Department.
