The CDC released a statement today that flu cases are continuing to climb. The U.S. Southwest — Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas — is the region hardest hit by the flu this season. The flu has been seen strongest in people of young and middle age. Young and middle-aged adults also were disproportionately affected during the 2009 H1N1 flu pandemic. The 2009 H1N1 viruses have been the most predominant circulating strain so far this season. This year what has been reported to date is that about 61 percent of the 2,622 flu-related hospitalizations have been for people between 18 and 64 years of age. The CDC is advising that anyone aged 6 months and older who has not gotten a flu vaccine yet this season should get one now.
The sad part is that across all age ranges, about 40 percent to 45 percent of people get an annual flu shot. Flu shots are relatively inexpensive and widely available. There is even help in Texas for people who have limited funds to be able to attain the flu shot. Yet only 31 percent of people 18 to 49 years old usually receive a flu vaccination. The CDC states on their web site that a flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect yourself and the people around you from influenza and its potentially serious complications.
In addition to the flu shot there are other good practices such as good hygiene by washing their hands often, covering their cough or sneeze, and staying home from school or work when sick. The best thing you can do is practice good hygiene. A lot of people do not realize that the flu can be spread before the person who is carrier even shows any signs or symptoms.
