2007/2008 Flu Season is not Over Yet

Polls

Has C. diff affected you?

	Yes, I have fought C. diff myself
	Yes, a family member/friend survived it
	Yes, but tragically the person died
	No, have managed to avoid it so far

2007/2008 Flu Season is not Over Yet

Monday, 21 April 2008 09:17

Did you manage to avoid the flu this year. Well, if you thought you dodged the bullet, you may want to reconsider. According to the CDC, flu outbreaks are still considered to be widespread in over six states including Connecticut, Maryland, Maine, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont.

This year's flu season is nothing to sneeze about, the CDC announced that "the proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza has been above the epidemic threshold for 14 consecutive weeks." Contributing to the number of flu cases this year is the apparent lack of effectiveness of this year's flu shot. A recently completed study found that this year's flu vaccine was only approximately 50% effective vs. previous years where it was 70% to 90% (for those seeking medical care). At least I don't have to feel too guilty about not getting the flu shot this year.

Gaze into my crystal ball

In fairness to the World Health Organization (WHO) and FDA, determining the components of the flu vaccine is part science and part luck. Next year's flu vaccine for the 2008/2009 season has already been recommended in order to allow enough time begin production. The vaccine will actually swap out all three of this year's virus' and replace them. For those that are interested, next year's vaccine will contain

A/Brisbane/59/2007-like (H1N1)
A/Brisbane/10/2007-like (H3N2)
B/Florida/4/2006-like viruses

Let's hope their prognostication skills improve for next year

Remain Vigilant and GermAware

In your fight to stay healthy, you have many tools in your arsenal. Don't fall prey to believing that because you are in a certain season or have taken a shot that you are immune to falling ill. Protect yourself, your family and your friends by remaining GermAware. Please check out our GermAware Store for some great ideas or just to stock up on the necessities.

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