The CDC just sent out an official health advisory and we wanted to share some of it’s highlights.

“From November through December 2013, CDC has received a number of reports of severe respiratory illness among young and middle-aged adults, many of whom were infected with influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 (pH1N1) virus. Multiple pH1N1-associated hospitalizations, including many requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and some fatalities have been reported. The pH1N1 virus that emerged in 2009 caused more illness in children and young adults, compared to older adults, although severe illness was seen in all age groups. While it is not possible to predict which influenza viruses will predominate during the entire 2013-14 influenza season, pH1N1 has been the predominant circulating virus so far. For the 2013-14 season, if pH1N1 virus continues to circulate widely, illness that disproportionately affects young and middle-aged adults may occur.”

  • As you can see, although influenza is especially dangerous to the young, elderly and those with respiratory disease, it doesn’t discriminate.

“CDC recommends annual vaccination as the best tool for prevention. However, for persons with suspected or confirmed influenza, treatment with neuraminidase inhibitor antiviral drugs (oral oseltamivir and inhaled zanamivir) can be an important component of clinical care. Evidence from past influenza seasons and the 2009 H1N1 pandemic has consistently shown that treatment with antiviral medications reduces severe outcomes of influenza when initiated as soon as possible after illness onset. Clinical trials and observational data show that early antiviral treatment may (1) shorten the duration of fever and illness symptoms, (2) reduce the risk of complications from influenza (e.g., otitis media in young children, pneumonia, respiratory failure and death), and (3) shorten the duration of hospitalization.”

  • Getting vaccinated is the first and most important step in protecting against this serious illness. Remember, it’s not too late, as long as the virus is circulating.
  • If you get sick with a flu-like illness, stay home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care. (Your fever should be gone without the use of fever- reducing medicine.)
  • Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette. Germs can be spread up to 6 feet away if you don’t cover your mouth and nose properly.
  • Wash your hands regularly.

We are here to help! If you develop flu-like symptoms call us as soon as possible.

For more information see flu.gov or cdc.gov