Preparation is key in the fight against the flu this season

If you have ever had the flu, you know how miserable it is. I’ve seen hundreds of cases as a doctor, but I also know from personal experience. To give my family and myself the best odds against the flu, we get the flu shot every year. This year is what the CDC calls a “widespread outbreak”, much like the Swine flu outbreak of 2009. Most of the US, including Montana, is included in this outbreak, and its range is increasing daily. The flu hit a bit earlier this season than expected, so we need to be prepared for a second wave later in the season.

The flu shot will be 60 percent effective in keeping you from getting the virus. If you have not gotten the shot yet, it’s not too late. It takes 2 to 3 weeks to be fully effective, but the flu season usually goes through May, so there are still several months worth of the possibility of coming in contact with the virus. Everyone can benefit from taking this simple precaution.

Those most at risk for the flu however, are children, adults 65 and over, pregnant women, asthma and COPD sufferers, those with kidney, liver and metabolic disorders (like diabetes), and anyone with a weakened immune system.

I’ve heard people tell me time and again that they have gotten the flu from the shot in the past. Can’t happen, actually. The flu shot is made from a dead inactive virus, and it cannot give you the flu. The most likely explanation for getting sick after the shot, is that you were already exposed to the virus before you got the shot.

One advantage of the shot is that it could keep you from putting a hold on your life for several days. If you or your kids get the flu, you will have to take time off work, and nobody wants that. But more importantly, you have less chance of getting sick, thus less chance of passing it on to an elderly or immune compromised relative or an infant in your care. Flu to infants, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems can be deadly. In fact, Montana has had six flu-related deaths, and over 125 hospitalizations so far this season. Add that to the rest of the country and it makes for some troubling numbers.

Let’s say you are still resisting getting that shot. Flu virus can result in 7 to 10 days of fever, cough, sore throat, and headache. And don’t forget the body aches and chills as well as the ever-popular nausea and vomiting.

If you simply refuse to get the flu shot, at least follow the best hand-washing regimen possible.

Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket or purse, and use it often. Keep one at home where it’s easily accessible, and put one on your desk at work. Preventing the spread of the virus is the first step.

If you find yourself with flu symptoms, STAY HOME from work or school. You will probably have a fever. As long as that fever persists, you are most likely contagious, as well as for 24 hours after your fever subsides. Help control the spread of the flu by riding it out at home. You do have permission, however, to go see your doctor as soon as possible. There are medicines that can help ease your symptoms and may shorten your illness time, but they need to be started at the outset of your symptoms.

Because of high demand, this medicine is in short supply, so it’s best to practice prevention and work to avoid getting the flu.

Also, with this widespread outbreak, the vaccine itself can be in short supply and not all providers will have it. Some don’t carry the vaccine for children. Please call your provider to make sure they have it before making a trip. Many pharmacies will give you a flu shot without making an appointment. Plus, don’t forget that our own Mineral County Health Department has flu shots for adults and children.  

For more information regarding the flu vaccine or any other immunization you can contact the health department at 822-3564

Mineral County can be a less dangerous place for the flu if we all do our part.