Seasonal influenza is spreading

The influenza virus is making its appearance nationally and is high in some states. The CDC reports widespread influenza outbreaks in North Carolina. In fact, influenza has become widespread in 25 states this week compared to just 10 states last week.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has confirmed that H1N1 (swine flu) is resurfacing after achieving pandemic status in 2009, when it led to the deaths of 12,000 in the U.S. Because of this deadly outbreak, everyone over 6 months is encouraged to receive the seasonal flu shot so as to counter the effects brought about by any form of exposure. The current seasonal influenza vaccine contains the H1N1 strain.

Recently, many specimens are being tested by the World Health Organization (WHO), and, surprisingly, over 60% of these samples have tested positive for the H1N1 virus called swine flu. This flu virus started in pigs, but managed to spread to humans and now between humans. This year, because H1N1 appears to be the predominant flu strain, more infections will be seen in younger adults as opposed to the infants and elderly. These young adults with underlying conditions including asthma, are at higher risk for hospitalization or death from complications of influenza infection.

The CDC recommends 3 actions to fight the flu, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm 1) Take time to get the flu vaccine 2) Take everyday prevention to stop the spread of germs 3) Take flu antiviral if your doctor prescribes them. At Family Allergy Asthma & Sinus Care, we strive to keep all of our patients healthy.