The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends an annual vaccine for everyone 6 months old and up. This is by far the most important step in preparing for the flu season. Every year an epidemic occurs, and several thousand people die from the Influenza virus.
The Influenza virus vaccine contains the 3 most common strains for the year. Although many different strains can occur, the most common found strains are covered in the annual vaccine. So it is still possible to get a “flu” if you have been vaccinated. You cannot get the flu from the vaccine itself since the viral particles are dead. However, the sense of illness you may get from the vaccine is your immune system just doing its job by revving up your body’s inflammation and immunity chemicals.
This year’s vaccine is the same as last year containing the H1N1, the H3N2, and the B/Brisbane 2008 like virus. If you remember, 2008 was a very high mortality year for the flu. The 2008 flu had a several thousand person mortality in Europe and Asia alone just in the first 2 weeks of the season. Approximately 1,000 people died each week from the flu.
The other things you can do of course is to use antibacterial wash or lotion often. Do not go to the hospital if you are sick with flulike symptoms. If you are sick go to the ER for a flu screen.
Vitamin C can lessen the symptoms of the flu, as well as Echinacea. Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and if needed take an antiinflammatory drug to reduce fever and achiness.
Good luck this season. Stay healthy!
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