Ask Dr. Vieder
What do we know about this year’s fl u season?
While we are very early into the new fl u season, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that the circulating fl u strains match the strains prepared for in this
year’s quadrivalent infl uenza vaccine. Flu seasons can be unpredictable, but peak fl u activity is usually between late December and March each year.
Last year, active fl u cases were still being reported into late May and were associated with over 80,000 deaths in the Unites States, including 230 children (most of
whom were not vaccinated). Epidemics of fl u occur each year, but the location and severity of the cases varies from year to year. The actual type of fl u strain can
change or mutate from year to year, but the CDC helps predict what strains will be most active and this information is used in formulating the vaccine each season.
When is the best time to get a fl u shot and where can I get one?
Since it takes the vaccine about two weeks to become fully effective, it’s best for everyone to get vaccinated starting in late September through late October.
Lakes Urgent has the more effective quadrivalent (four component) fl u vaccine which offers greater protection. We also have the high-dose vaccine for patients
65 and older. Please make it a point to see your primary care physician, pediatrician or visit us anytime at Lakes Urgent Care. Now is the time to vaccinate!
Who should get a fl u shot?
An annual fl u vaccine is the best way to protect you and your family from getting the fl u. The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention recommend that everyone age six months or older should get a fl u shot. Getting vaccinated is especially important for
those are at greater risk of having more severe complications from infl uenza: people with a compromised immune system, heart or
lung disease and women who are pregnant.
What are your top tips for avoiding the fl u?
Aside from getting vaccinated annually, the number one thing everyone can do to help prevent the spread of infl uenza and other
infections is to wash hands frequently and properly. If you do become ill, stay home to prevent further spread and contamination. Stay
hydrated and cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. At work and at home, regularly wipe down commonly touched surfaces like
door handles, remote controls, keyboards and computer mice.
Flu germs can live on theses surfaces for up to 24 hours.
For more health information, visit the Ask Dr. Vieder page at LakesUrgentCare.com
Dr. Sanford Vieder, DO, FACEP, FACOEP, Medical Director at Lakes Urgent Care, West Bloomfi eld/Livonia
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October 25 • 2018
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