“We are now well into what appears to be a somewhat severe flu season,” said State Health Commissioner Gregory Larkin, M.D. “However, it is absolutely not too late to become vaccinated. If you have not been vaccinated this year, I encourage you to get vaccinated now to protect you and your family.”
The 2012-13 vaccine protects against the three most common strains of influenza: H3N2, H1N1, and Influenza B. Health officials say that although cases of H1N1 and Influenza B have been reported, the H3N2 strain appears to be predominant.
The 2012-13 vaccine appears to be a good match for circulating flu strains.
“Typically, H3N2 seasons tend to be more severe, with a higher number of hospitalizations and deaths,” said Dr. Larkin. “Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms should contact their health care provider, even if they have been vaccinated.”
Pulaski County Health Nurse, Andrea Keller urges people to "stay home when they are sick.” Pulaski Memorial Hospital has seen a big increase in positive influenza cases since Dec. 1.
Symptoms of the flu include:
- Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
Flu vaccination is recommended for anyone 6 months of age or older. It is especially important for those at higher risk of complications related to the flu to become vaccinated. High risk individuals include pregnant women, young children, people with chronic illnesses and/or compromised immune systems and the elderly.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that all health care workers become vaccinated each year to protect themselves and their patients.
Some other tips to help protect against the spread of influenza include:
- Clean. Properly wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water.
- Cover. Cover your cough and sneeze with your arm or a disposable tissue.
- Contain. Stay home from school/work when you are sick to keep your germs from spreading.
For more information about Indiana’s 2012-13 influenza season, visit the Indiana State Department of Health at www.StateHealth.in.gov. Contact your local care provider or the Pulaski County Health Department to schedule your flu vaccination. Call the health department at 574-946-6080.
