This time of year is called “flu season.” In the United States, flu viruses are most common during the fall and winter months. Influenza activity often begins to increase in October and November. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, and it can last as late as May. Seasonal flu viruses can be detected year-round. It is not possible to predict what this flu season will be like. While flu spreads every year, the timing, severity, and length of the season varies from one season to another.

CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease.

CDC estimates that flu has resulted in between 9.2 million and 35.6 million illnesses each year in the United States. Since 2010, CDC estimates that flu has resulted in between 140,000 and 710,000 hospitalizations each year. CDC estimates that from 2010-2011 to 2013-2014, influenza-associated deaths in the United States ranged from a low of 12,000 (during 2011-2012) to a high of 56,000 (during 2012-2013). Death certificate data and weekly influenza virus surveillance information was used to estimate how many flu-related deaths occurred among people whose underlying cause of death on their death certificate included respiratory or circulatory causes.

In addition to getting a seasonal flu vaccine, you can take everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading flu to others. In addition, there are prescription medications called antiviral drugs that can be used to treat influenza illness.

Flu vaccine is available at the Public Health Office. There is a good supply of High Dose (for those age 65+), Pediatric injectable and regular injectable. At this time we do not have the nasal spray (FluMist) but are expecting to receive a shipment soon. Flu clinics will be scheduled soon, stay tuned.

If you have questions, please call the Public Health Office at 436-2297