This article appeared in the Midland Daily News. Read the full story here.
There are four types of flu but the most common are types A and B. These types are spread between people and create most flu epidemics.
Reason for concern
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the last flu season, 2017-2018, was the worst reporting period for influenza-related illnesses and deaths since a major pandemic in 2009. CDC estimates that almost 80,000 people died from flu in 2018 and almost 50 million people contracted the illness. Hospital visits resulting from flu numbered 959,000 and flu also caused almost 23 million visits to a medical professional.
Additionally, the season was unusual in that the flu was reported in more age groups. Usually, children are the most likely to contract flu and adults over age sixty-five report the smallest amount of cases. Last year, it was reported in people of all ages.
The impact of the flu on the body
The main difference between a cold and the flu is the speed with which flu symptoms begin to appear. Symptoms appear suddenly and usually include fever, cough, sore throat and runny nose. Additional symptoms are fatigue, headache, body or muscle ache. In some instances, diarrhea or nausea occurs. Ear and sinus infections may also begin and sometimes, pneumonia, heart attack and stroke can result from the flu. The flu may also cause some existing chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or congestive heart failure to get worse.
Vaccination and other prevention methods
Along with its information about the upcoming flu season, CDC issued a statement recommending vaccinations for anyone 6 months of age or older with a vaccine appropriate for the person’s health and age. Vaccines should be administered by the end of October when the flu season officially begins. It is advisable to consult a physician about flu vaccines. The vaccine is available at physicians’ offices, local and state health departments and some pharmacies. Employers may also offer flu shots for employees.
Daily precautions may also prevent flu from spreading. Since the virus is spread by human contact, avoiding such contact during flu season is recommended. If you are sick, do not touch others or get close to them. Other common-sense methods include covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Hand washing and cleanliness are other effective ways to help prevent flu from spreading.
Touching the nose and mouth increase the chances of the flu virus being spread if someone has touched someone or a surface where the virus may be present. Also, keeping home and work areas clean lessens the probability that germs will be spread.
Parents should also be diligent in learning if flu has been reported in the schools their children attend. If cases are reported, schools should have a plan to separate infected staff and students from the non-infected until the sick students can go home. Employers should also have influenza plans in place.
To learn more about the flu and vaccinations, log on to vascularhealthclinics.org and visit the Infectious Disease Institute.