Flu Vaccinations: The Ounce of Prevention

Influenza has shown itself to be quite brutal this flu season. It has caused many deaths and become so widespread that it has reached the status of epidemic by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control).

Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a viral illness that affects the respiratory system. Flu season typically goes from September of the current year to May of the year which follows. Peak flu season is generally the colder months of January and February.

Common symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, fatigue and headache. The flu is spread via respiratory droplets which are easily disseminated through talking, coughing, or sneezing. The virus has an incubation period of approximately one to five days and most people are contagious, capable of spreading the disease to others, before exhibiting any symptoms of flu.

For African Americans, the impact of influenza can be even more grim. Because African Americans tend to have more chronic health problems, catching the flu could prove detrimental. People with diabetes, chronic lung problems such as asthma or emphysema, heart disease, and weakened immune systems should be vaccinated annually. 

Commonly asked questions

Who should get the flu vaccine? Everyone 6 months of age and older should receive a yearly flu vaccine

Should pregnant women be vaccinated? Absolutely! Studies show no increased risk to the fetus.

Will I catch the flu from the flu shot?          No! Some patients might experience mild flu-like symptoms, but the vaccination does not cause the flu. This is a complete myth and could be a factor for those who tend to avoid the vaccine.

Why is prevention so important? The flu can lead to serious complications, especially in the very young, the elderly, and people with underlying diseases or weakened immune systems. Complications such as otitis media, pneumonia, or respiratory failure may lead to death.

What can you do to prevent getting the flu?

• WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY WITH SOAP AND WATER OR USE AN ALCOHOL BASED HAND CLEANER
• COVER YOUR NOSE AND MOUTH WITH A TISSUE WHEN YOU COUGH OR SNEEZE. THROW THE TISSUE IN THE TRASH IMMEDIATELY AFTER USE
• AVOID TOUCHING YOUR EYES, NOSE AND MOUTH. GERMS SPREAD EASILY THIS WAY
• AVOID CONTACT WITH ANYONE WHO HAS A KNOWN RESPIRATORY ILLNESS
• STAY HOME FROM WORK AND SCHOOL IF YOU ARE SICK WITH THE FLU TO PREVENT INFECTING OTHERS
• GET VACCINATED. SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER ABOUT THE TYPE OF FLU VACCINE THAT IS BEST FOR YOU

Antiviral drugs are the first line of defense when symptoms occur. These drugs lose their effectiveness if not administered within the first forty-eight hours of experiencing symptoms.

Influenza gives credibility to that old adage that an “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.

Please consult with your physician regarding all health care concerns.

Marilyn Marshall, MD
Family Medicine
Lafayette, LA