Flu Vaccines

The flu season is upon us early this year and with the emergence of the Novel H1N1 influenza virus there is particular attention being paid to flu vaccines in general and when there will be one available for the H1N1 virus. The flu season usually begins in October and runs until about March but this year we’ve started seeing cases as early as July.

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It’s important to try your best to avoid getting sick in the first place by washing your hands, not touching your face, drinking fluids, getting enough sleep, etc. Getting a regular annual flu shot is a good idea, especially for those people in higher risk groups (the very young, the very old, healthcare workers, pregnant women, and people with chronic diseases), but the H1N1 virus is different enough from influenza A and B that a person will not be adequately protected against it with the annual flu vaccine.

A vaccine is being developed currently that is specific for the H1N1 virus and it should be ready by October. Those people who are recommended to get it are:

• Pregnant women
• People who live with or care for children 6 months of age and younger
• Healthcare workers
• People ages 6 months to 24 years old, and
• People ages 25 to 64 years old who have chronic health conditions or compromised immune systems

In San Francisco there are plans to give up to 140,000 free H1N1 vaccines through city health clinics.

If you end up getting the flu, H1N1 or otherwise, it is best to stay home and avoid contact with others as much as possible. Starting a prescription antiviral, such as Tamiflu, within the first 24-48 hours of the onset of symptoms and lessen the severity and shorten the length of time of the flu. If you need to leave the house you should wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth. The symptoms of the flu last about 7 days typically and are best treated with lots of clear fluids like water, broth, sports drinks, etc. and Tylenol or ibuprofen for symptomatic relief of fever and muscle aches. Aspirin should be avoided in children and teenagers with the flu as it can cause a rare disorder called Reyes syndrome which causes an acute increase in pressure in the brain and massive fat deposition in the liver.

Finally, remember the best thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands and don’t touch your face. • About Dr. Savant

Related posts:

1. Pregnancy and Flu Vaccines
2. Flu Update
3. Avoiding Viral Illnesses (Such as Swine Flu)