“The flu is here as expected but the good news is, it’s not too late to get vaccinated,” said William Icenhower, MD, St. Mary’s County Health Officer.  “There is nothing pleasant about the flu.  With illness continuing in our community, now is the time for anyone not yet vaccinated to do so. We will protect ourselves as well as others who may be at risk for more serious flu symptoms.” 

 
If the 2010-2011 flu season continues as expected, the number of people who get sick require hospitalization or die will continue to increase to a peak in late February. 

“Flu vaccinations are available by appointment at the St. Mary’s County Health Department; call 301-475-4716. Flu vaccines are available for a $20 donation. The Health Department does accept Medicare.  Health care providers and pharmacies are also reporting good supplies of the flu vaccine.  “Remember, the vaccine is the best form of protection but it takes about two weeks to provide immunity.  In general, we can protect ourselves by frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home from work or school when sick,” continued Icenhower.

The current seasonal flu vaccine will protect many, but not all, people against the three most common strains of the virus detected in the United States so far this season, including H1N1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone above the age of 6 months get vaccinated. 

According to the CDC, people at a higher risk of serious health consequences from the flu virus are:
 
• Children less than 5 years old  
• Persons aged 65 years or older  
• Pregnant women  
• Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities  
• Adults and children who have chronic pulmonary, cardiovascular, hepatic, hematological, neurologic, neuromuscular, or metabolic disorders  
• Adults and children who have immunosuppression (including immunosuppression caused by medications or by HIV) 
• Children and adolescents (less than 19 years) who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and who might be at risk for experiencing Reye syndrome after influenza virus infection 
 
The best protection against the flu virus is vaccination and practicing good personal hygiene: 
 
• Wash your hands often, especially after coughing, sneezing, and wiping or blowing your nose 
•
<!–

–>