Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, and people of any age can contract it. Some individuals, including the elderly, young children and those with certain health conditions, are at greater risk for serious flu complications. In an average year, as many as 49,000 deaths and almost 300,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. are attributed to the flu.
The recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is to get vaccinated each year, as soon as the vaccine is available. Flu activity generally gets under way by November and can occur as late as May. For the 2014–2015 flu season, immunization is effective against three or four strains of influenza, depending on the particular vaccine.
“The flu vaccine allows antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after patients are vaccinated,” explained Jason Golbin, MD, vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer of St. Catherine of Siena. “These antibodies help provide protection against infection with the viruses in the vaccine. The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine every season.“
Here are some additional tips to stop the spread of influenza and other illnesses:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
- If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow
- Wash your hands often with soap and water (or an alcohol-based sanitizer) for 20 seconds
- Stay home from work or school and otherwise avoid contact with others when sick
Speak to your physician if you are having health issues. Visit www.chsli.org to find a doctor near you.
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