FLU: A Serious Illness

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Every year thousands of Americans die from influenza, and the nation is currently experiencing higher than normal cases of flu. Several measures are available to help mitigate the risk to Patrick Air Force Base personnel.

"The clinic still has plenty of vaccine available for all to include active duty, dependents, retirees and their dependents," said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Alesia Carrizales, 45th Medical Group chief of staff. "Due to the severity of this year's flu season and our ample supply, vaccine will also be made available to contractors. No prescription is required."
While the flu typically peaks in late January or February, Brevard County officials have already classified the local threat as 'moderate,' just one step below the highest alert 'severe.'"

"Typical flu season runs from October through March, so it's definitely not too late to receive the vaccination for this year," said Dr. Carrizales.
Children, people with chronic diseases like diabetes, pregnant women and older people are at highest risk. The Centers for Disease Control recommends flu vaccination for all people ages 6 months and up.

"While it appears this year's vaccine is approximately 62 percent effective, this still means that 6 out of 10 who receive it would be protected," she said. "Even in cases where flu is not prevented, immunization can reduce flu severity and prevent other life-threatening complications resulting from flu."

In addition to vaccination individuals can do their part in preventing flu:
· frequent hand washing,
· use arm rather than hand to cover mouth when coughing,
· stay home from work if showing symptoms of flu to include fever greater than 100.4 degrees plus cough or sore throat,
· return to work after no fevers for 24 hours without using fever reducing medications.