Anticipating The Flu Season Down Under

 

The red band signifies the tropics, which has no distinct flu season.  Viruses circulate there, at a low level, year round. – Credit Wikipedia

 

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Although flu season south of the equator won’t begin for several more months, health authorities in Australia and New Zealand are watching our busy flu season closely, and are warning the public to get vaccinated in advance of what could be a difficult flu season.

 

Watching what happens during the flu season in the opposite hemisphere can sometimes provide clues as to what the next flu season will bring.

 

Of course, it doesn’t always prove predictive. 

 

Last year, Australia and New Zealand saw a moderately active flu season, despite North America’s unusually quiet 2011-12 flu season (see The 2012 Flu Season Down Under).

 

While the media coverage is a bit hyperbolic (the flu season here is being described as moderately-severe), I’ve linked to a few recent news stories from down under to provide the `flavor’ of the coverage.

 

 

Warning over killer flu

Karen O'Sullivan, Yahoo!7 January 15, 2013, 3:46 pm

Health experts are warning a deadly flu that has spread across the United States will inevitably hit our shores.

Doctors want Australians to be prepared and to make sure they are vaccinated.

 

 

The devastating flu outbreak in the US could be on its way here

• Tory Shepherd From: news.com.au
• January 15, 2013 12:00AM

• 20 children have died from flu in the US
• Influenza strains travel the globe
• Australia should consider US season a "forewarning"

 

 

NZ preparing for deadly flu

Tuesday, 15 January 2013 10:50

Medical experts in New Zealand are bracing themselves for the arrival of a deadly flu that is sweeping the US which has already killed 20 children.

 

The southern hemisphere flu season doesn’t usually begin in earnest until May or June, but the flu vaccine will be available starting in March. Public health officials are urging early vaccination in order blunt the flu’s impact.

 

Since it takes roughly six months to produce enough flu vaccine for the next flu season, twice each year (February & September) experts gather to decide on the strains to include in the next vaccine.

 

Last September participants from divisions of the World Health Organization’s GISRS (Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System), along with members of OFFLU (the OIE/FAO Network on Animal Influenza), and other experts met in Beijing, China.

 

After group consultation, the experts opted for the same vaccine formulation that is currently being used in the northern hemisphere (see WHO: Southern Hemisphere 2013 Flu Vaccine Composition).

 

They recommended that trivalent vaccines for use in the 2013 influenza season (southern hemisphere winter) contain the following:

• an A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
• an A/Victoria/361/2011 (H3N2)-like virus;
• a B/Wisconsin/1/2010-like virus
  

They also recommended that quadrivalent vaccines containing two influenza B viruses contain the above three viruses and a B/Brisbane/60/2008-like virus.

 

 
Recent studies (see (A Comprehensive Flu Vaccine Effectiveness Meta-Analysis) have shown the flu shot to be moderately effective in preventing influenza – at least among healthy adults under the age of 65.

 

Similarly, last Friday in FluView Week 1 & MMWR Vaccine Effectiveness Report, we saw the first estimate of this year’s flu vaccine’s effectiveness, and early numbers suggest it to be around 62%.

 

For the elderly and for those with immune problems the flu vaccine’s effectiveness is often lower (see Study: Flu Vaccines And The Elderly).

 

In 2011, NFID - the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases - convened a group of experts to address the issues of influenza and the elderly. From that panel a 5-page brief has emerged, called: Understanding the Challenges and Opportunities in Protecting Older Adults from Influenza.

 

While the elderly generally see less protection from the flu vaccine, they state that older individuals may still mount a robust immune response. Even if the vaccine doesn’t always prevent infection in the elderly, studies suggest that the vaccine may blunt the seriousness of the illness in those over 65.

 

Although there is a pressing need for better flu vaccines (see CIDRAP: The Need For `Game Changing’ Flu Vaccines), flu shots are still considered the best preventative action you can take against influenza, and serious side effects are extremely rare.

 

So while not a guarantee against getting influenza, they do provide a moderate degree of protection.

 

Beyond the vaccine, the CDC also reminds us:

 

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.*
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu–like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

»» Read More

ACP Calls For Health Care Worker Immunizations

 

Photo Credit – CDC PHIL

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Today the American College of Physicians (ACP) – the second largest physician group in the United States – issued a statement supporting the immunization of all health care workers against influenza, along with a variety of other vaccine-preventable communicable diseases (including diphtheria; hepatitis B; measles, mumps, and rubella; pertussis (whooping cough); and varicella.

 

Their policy recommendations fall short of calling for across-the-board `mandatory’ vaccinations, as they do allow for exemptions due to medical reasons or religious objections to immunization.

 

You may recall that last October the  CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) endorsed requiring HCWs (Health Care Workers) to get a seasonal flu shot (see CMAJ On Mandatory Flu Shot For HCWs).

 

While strongly advocating influenza vaccination for HCPs, the CDC has stopped short of mandating them. I blogged on this back in June of 2010 (see CDC: Proposed Influenza Infection Control Guidance).

 

Many professional medical organizations have taken a stronger stance, adopting policies calling for mandatory vaccination of health care workers (HCWs).  A few earlier blogs on this include:

 

APIC Calls For Mandatory Flu Vaccination For HCWs

AAP: Recommends Mandatory Flu Vaccinations For HCWs

SHEA: Mandatory Vaccination Of Health Care Workers

IDSA Urges Mandatory Flu Vaccinations For Healthcare Workers

 

This latest call for flu vaccination comes as the first state-mandated flu vaccine requirement for HCWs – see Rhode Island Adopts New Flu Vaccination Requirements For HCPs - is being contested by a healthcare worker’s union in court. 

 

This from AMEDNEWS.COM.

 

First state flu shot mandate at center of legal battle

A union is suing Rhode Island over a regulation requiring all health workers to receive influenza vaccine or wear masks while they’re working.

By Alicia Gallegos, amednews staff. Posted Jan. 14, 2013.

The Rhode Island Dept. of Health is asking a federal judge to throw out a lawsuit challenging its recently issued mandate that health care employees receive the influenza vaccine.

(Continue . . . )

 

While many infection control experts see mandatory immunization a necessary and long overdue step in patient and co-worker protection, this is a hugely divisive issue, with many HCWs believing that it is an infringement of their rights to decide what will be injected into their bodies.

 

I’ve covered HCW’s objections to forced flu shots in the past, including:

 

HCWs: Refusing To Bare Arms

HCWs: Developing a Different Kind Of Resistance

 

Despite recent studies showing that flu shots provide only about 60% protection against influenza, many hospitals see this as both a liability and an economic issue, on top of their concerns over patient welfare.

 

Which is why – despite protests from some employees – an increasing number of hospitals and medical offices are making flu vaccination mandatory over the past few years. A couple of recent examples include:

 

Mandatory Flu Shots For Children's Medical Center Employees

Hospital's 'Cocoon Strategy' Aimed At Protecting Young Patients

 

Local health system mandates flu vaccine for upcoming season

 

 

 

Here is the ACP link, and some excerpts, from today’s press release:

 

American College of Physicians calls for immunizations for all health care providers

40,000 to 50,000 adults die from vaccine-preventable diseases each year in the U.S.

PHILADELPHIA, January 14, 2013 -- The American College of Physicians (ACP) has approved a policy recommendation that all health care providers (HCPs) be immunized against influenza; diphtheria; hepatitis B; measles, mumps, and rubella; pertussis (whooping cough); and varicella (chickenpox) according to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Adult Immunization Schedule. ACP’s policy exempts HCPs for medical reasons or a religious objection to immunization.

 

“These transmissible infectious diseases represent a threat to health care providers and the patients we serve, who are often highly vulnerable to infection,” said David L. Bronson, MD, FACP, president, ACP. “Proper immunization safely and effectively prevents a significant number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths among patients as well as preventing workplace disruption and medical errors by absent workers due to illness.”

 

With a severe flu season underway, ACP urges all adults to get a flu shot if they haven’t already and to talk with their internist about other immunizations they might need. Only 39 percent of adults received the flu vaccine during the 2011-12 season. People who cannot get a flu shot or other immunizations for medical reasons should talk to their internist about other ways of protecting themselves.

 

ACP is committed to improving public health through encouraging appropriate immunization of adults. In August 2012, ACP was awarded an initial $175,000 of a total $525,000 grant for 2012-13 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create a three-year, evidence-based program to increase adult immunization rates in five states. In addition, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) approved practice improvement credit for the Medical Home Builder adult immunization module for recertifying physicians.

 

(Continue . . . )

Popular among HCWs or not  – short of an overturn in the courts – the requirement for annual flu vaccinations in HCPs continues to gain traction across the country, and around the world.

 

»» Read More

Branswell On Flu Vaccine Matches

Photo Credit – CDC 

 

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Last Friday, in FluView Week 1 & MMWR Vaccine Effectiveness Report, we looked at the first estimate of this year’s flu vaccine’s effectiveness, and early numbers suggest it to be around 62%.

 

An estimate that is very close to what the 2011 study by Michael Osterholm and his team at CIDRAP - A Comprehensive Flu Vaccine Effectiveness Meta-Analysis - found; that most years the flu vaccine was `moderately’ protective.

Unfortunately for the elderly and for those with immune problems – the people most at risk of complications from the flu – the flu vaccine’s effectiveness is often even lower (see Study: Flu Vaccines And The Elderly).

 

Today the inimitable Helen Branswell, ace health reporter for The Canadian Press gives us a terrific look at the vaccine effectiveness issue, with interviews of Dr. Michael Osterholm of CIDRAP, Dr. Nancy Cox at the CDC, and Dr. Danuta Skowronski of the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, and Dr. Edward Belongia of the Marshfield Clinic in Marshfield, Wisconsin.

 

At this point, I’ll just step out of the way and invite you to read:

 

Flu studies suggest vaccine `match' not super predictor of effectiveness

Helen Branswell,

Sunday, January 13, 2013 7:55 PM

 

Highly Recommended.

»» Read More

Flu Vaccine Still Available, But Spot Shortages Exist

 

 

 

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With influenza prominently in the news, and localized `flu emergencies’ declared in Boston & New York, many people who opted not to take the flu shot this year are reconsidering, and are in search of the vaccine.

 

While late in the season, manufacturers say vaccine is still available (and more can be shipped), but you may have to do a little phoning around in order to find out who still has it in stock.

 

Spot shortages are being reported around the country, with some pharmacies are down to their last vial, waiting for a new shipment.

 

A few representative news reports from the past couple of days.

 

Bridgeport has flu vaccine, shortages elsewhere - Ct Post-Jan 10, 2013

"Spot Shortages" of Flu Vaccine Reported; Some SoCal locations Out - NBC Southern California

 

Flu Shot Shortage in Pittsburg - Four States Homepage-Jan 11, 2013

Nasty Flu Season Sparks Spotty Vaccine Shortages - CNBC.com-Jan 11, 2013

Flu shot shortage in parts of the Valley - KPHO Phoenix-Jan 11, 2013

 

 

The best way to locate where flu shots may still be available is via Healthmap’s Flu Vaccine Finder. By entering your zip code, you’ll get a map showing the locations (and addresses & Ph #’s) of places near you where shots are provided.

Healthmap Vaccine Finder

 

But fair warning, it is late in the season and flu vaccines are going fast, and so you should call ahead to make sure they still have shots available.   

»» Read More

What is Metoclopramide - Side Effects

Before I start to write about what is Metoclopramide, what are its side effects, and other important information about this medicine, I would like to write a short intro of this post. Please read it!

Always Consult Your Doctor before using Metoclopramide

Stomach flu treatment with medications is not possible, however, there are some medications that can help with reducing the symptoms and by that help with your condition. Metoclopramide is one of those medications. In previous post you could read about Compazine, that's another one.

All medications are meant to help people with various illnesses, but all of them have their right dosage and frequency in taking, as well as side effects. All of them MUST BE prescribed by your doctor, or otherwise, if you use it on your own hand, if you are recommended by friend or in pharmacy, you are taking a huge risk to permanently damage your health! No medicine is a toy, and non of them should be taken without professional medical advice of your health care provider, which in addition should follow your medical condition during the usage of any medication!

Part of the information, that I am writing in this post, is taken from another authority sites, which are considered to be good source for all information about this topic. All information taken form those sites are quoted, just like in my previous post.

I have my personal opinion on treating every illness, which is not connected to usage of medication, but I must write about it, since people are using those medicines without to much knowledge about them. So these posts are more likely to be taken as warnings, and should not be taken as advises at all ! ! !

So, What is Metoclopramide and How to Use it?

If you experience stomach flu symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have stomach flu! These would, further on, means that stomach flu symptoms such are nausea, vomiting, headache could happen to each of us because of many other causes, and not only stomach flu causes. However, Metoclopramide is considered to be very good in dealing with some of those symptoms!

Nausea and vomiting as a result of the use of anti-cancer drugs, post-surgery and the result of other medical illnesses will be reduced by increasing the contractions of the upper portion of the digestive tract. It improves gastric emptying time which helps reduce the incidence of heartburn, nausea and vomiting.
Metoclopramide also helps patients with diabetic gastroparesis in diabetic patients since it increases gastric emptying. There are more uses of metoclopramide and your doctor will advise you the ideal dosage and frequency of this medication after careful assessment of your symptoms.

Your doctor is the only authoritative person who can prescribe you Metoclopramide. Before taking it, you must have a good consultation with him/her about:

• medications you already use, especially if you are suffering from some chronic disease,
• all possible health disorders you might have,
• ingredients you are allergic to,
• do you use any supplements, vitamins and natural treatments,
• if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

Take metoclopramide 30 minutes before meals and before going to bed at night. This helps reduce the heartburn that is common after a heavy meal.
If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Never double your dose. Space the remaining dose evenly. Remember to take your medications on time so you will be able to benefit from the therapeutic action of metoclopramide.
If you are using ODT or metoclopramide orally disintegrating tablet, remove the medication from the casing just before taking them. Place the tablet on your tongue and never swallow it, allow it to melt completely. You don’t need to follow up with water just allow the ODT to melt on its own.
If you are taking oral syrup form, use a measuring cup to take precise doses of the medication; never use a spoon or a tablespoon.
Do not overdose; high doses of metoclopramide will cause uncontrollable muscle movements of the face, eyes, lips and extremities. Never stop abruptly, allow your doctor to schedule a weaning dose for you to prevent serious side effects.
Avoid drinking alcohol when taking metoclopramide. This medication will cause dizziness and sleepiness so do not operate machinery or drive.

If you are prescribed the Metoclopramide you must storage it properly. The storage of Metoclopramide depends on the type you are using, syrup and tablets should be stored on a place with temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C. If you are using injectable Metoclopramide store it at the regular room temperature! Do not remove medication from original package, nor throw away literature, you must have it case you experience side effects! Also, do not throw away your prescription, since you need it for your prescribed dose. Do not use Metoclopramide in higher doses than it is recommended for you, since this way you can experience side effects, over dosage or damage your health permanently; also, do not use this medication for a longer than 3 months!


READ CAREFULLY! Metoclopramide Side Effects

..and think twice before you use it!

For me the most important information in this post would be the Metoclopramide side effects, which should aware you and maybe discourage you from usage of this medicine! It is maybe good to treat vomiting and nausea, but its side effects can have biggest impact on your long term health!

Like almost every other medicine, Metoclopramide too has side effects! Metoclopramide side effects are more likely to happen to people with diabetes, older people and in women, but it may happen to everyone using it. Read this carefully, and even search for more information on Metoclopramide side effects!

• Stiffening of the muscles of the face causing a mask-like appearance.
• Anxiety, hallucinations, inability to sit or stay still and restlessness.
• Inability to control balance while walking, tremors and seizures.
• Worsening of diarrhea - this medicine may help with some stomach flu symptoms, but possibly increase some other gastrointestinal disorders!
• In women, flow of menses and changes in menstrual pattern, swelling of the breasts and breast tenderness.
• Headache and sleeping disorders!
• Dizziness and tiredness, together with drowsiness ans restlessness.

Some of Metoclopramide side effects are severe and you must contact your doctor right away to prevent worsening of your health condition! You must take care about every possible changes you might experience during usage of Metoclopramide and if you become concerned about any of those changes, immediately visit your health care provider! Read more about Metoclopramide side effects here and do not hesitate to ask your doctor any question might have on your mind, it is your health question and you must take good care of it!

»» Read More

Combat the Stomach Flu Symptoms with Prochlorperazine

In our previous posts we were talking about symptoms of stomach flu and how to treat is with natural herbs. You could find what to eat during the illness and what you should avoid to eat!

Always Consult Your Doctor before using Prochlorperazine

While there is no vaccine that can prevent the stomach flu, nor there is medicine which can cure you from stomach virus, there are some medicines which can help with reducing the symptoms of stomach flu.

Like every other medicines, these medicines should be prescribed by your doctor, and not some random page on google which talks about treatment of stomach flu with medications. I am personally, trying to avoid usage of any kind of drugs for each illness, and always give the first shoot to natural or home remedies. However, sometimes, it is almost impossible to treat illness without medicines.

So for all those who suffer from stomach flu symptoms and hardly stand them, there are some medications which can help with reducing and lowering the symptoms occurrence. These medicines are: Prochlorperazine, Metoclopramide and Loperamide. I am hardly write these lines, since I don't usually like to talk about drugs, but this information may be helpful and this is the reason I am writing it. However this post is not meant to be used as prescription for Prochlorperazine, it is written only in informative purpose, to inform you on what is Prochlorperazine, how to use it, and what are its side effects! Inform yourself about this medicine even if it is prescribed to you by your doctor, because you might experience Prochlorperazine side effects.

Combat the Stomach Flu Symptoms with Prochlorperazine

Main purpose of Prochlorperazine is to combat with severe and frequent vomiting and nausea! 

Oral prochlorperazine is a medication that is used for treatment of severe nausea and vomiting as a result of various medical conditions and during the treatment of anti-cancer drugs, medication for migraine and post-operative conditions. Prochlorperazine works by directly affecting the area of the brain that is responsible for keeping the balance of natural chemicals or neurotransmitters resulting to a decreased urge to vomit. Prochlorperazine may also be used to treat several disorders of the neurologic system like schizophrenia and may also be effective in the treatment of chronic stress and anxiety.
Prochlorperazine is a generic name and one of the brand names of prochlorperazine is Compazine. Compazine is available in oral, intravenous form, intramuscular and rectal (suppository) form.

Treatment of stomach flu symptoms with Prochlorperazine is only feasible under the constant surveillance of your doctor who prescribed this kind of treatment; you should constantly inform your doctor about your condition! It is very important to keep in touch with your doctor and inform him / her if you notice any Prochlorperazine side effects, allergic reaction or even if your symptoms get worst!

Before Taking Prochlorperazine!

You need to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about what you are allergic to, to determine whether these compounds have in Prochlorperazine; do you use any other medication for other chronic illnesses; do you use any supplements, vitamins and natural treatments which can be bad in combination with Prochlorperazine or affect its effects. If you are breast-feeding or pregnant you should not use this medicine!

How to Use Prochlorperazine?

Your doctor should give you some inputs on how to use this medicine, listen very carefully and even note if you can't remember everything he say! Take notice and stick to them!

Take the pills with or without food. There are no special diets while you are taking the medication.
Take your medication on time. If you missed a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. Never double your dose to make up for the missed one. If it is near the time for your next dose, skip the missed one and maintain your schedule. Remember to avoid missing your dose since you will reduce the effect.
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages; prochlorperazine will make you dizzy and taking alcohol will only make your dizziness and the feeling of light-headedness worse.
Avoid direct sun exposure; wear sunscreen with the highest SPF level and use long-sleeved shirts and hats to protect yourself.
Avoid dehydration by taking more fluids that usual. Limit strenuous activity and always have someone with you to help you when you feel dizzy.
Stopping the medication abruptly can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness and jittery feeling. Your doctor will advise you how to wean yourself from Compazine to reduce these unusual side effects.

If you are prescribed the Prochlorperazine you must storage it properly. The proper way is to place it in an room with temperature between 59 to 86 F degrees. Do not leave it in room or place where is high moisture, and do not expose it to the sunlight or leave it on a place where sunlight can reach! 

Prochlorperazine Side Effects!

For me the most important information in this post would be the Prochlorperazine side effects, which should aware you and maybe discourage you from usage of this medicine! It is maybe good to treat vomiting and nausea, but its side effects can have biggest impact on your long term health! 

On a long term, in men it can cause decreased libido and importance, in women breast swelling and weight gain. All together it can cause sleeping problems, headache, blurred vision, dizziness, confusion, anxiety! In some cases an urge medical intervention is required!

Also you must take care not to take more of this medicine than it is prescribed by doctor, if you take more than it is prescribed to you, immediate contact your local poison control center or your health care provider!

Talk to your doctor and keep him informed on your condition. Be aware of Prochlorperazine Side Effects, watch how your body react on it! Never use this medicine without your doctors prescription!!!

»» Read More

CDC Statement On This Year’s Flu Activity

Photo Credit – Wikipedia

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Later today we should get the the latest CDC  FluView and Canada’s FluWatch surveillance data, but for now we have the following statement by the CDC on this year’s early flu season, which includes advice on vaccination and the use of antivirals. 

 

 

 

 

Flu Activity Picks Up Nationwide

CDC recommends vaccination and antiviral treatment against influenza

January 4, 2013 -- Influenza activity continues to increase in the United States and most of the country is now experiencing high levels of influenza-like-illness (ILI), according to CDC’s latest FluView report. “Reports of influenza-like-illness (ILI) are nearing what have been peak levels during moderately severe seasons,” according to Dr. Joe Bresee. CDC continues to recommend influenza vaccination and antiviral treatment when appropriate at this time.

 

“While we can’t say for certain how severe this season will be, we can say that a lot of people are getting sick with influenza and we are getting reports of severe illness and hospitalizations,” says Bresee, who is Chief of the Epidemiology and Prevention Branch in CDC’s Influenza Division.

 

“Anyone who has not already been vaccinated should do so now,” Bresee says. “And it’s important to remember that people who have severe influenza illness, or who are at high risk of serious influenza-related complications, should get treated with influenza antiviral medications if they get flu symptoms regardless of whether or not they got vaccinated. Also, you don’t need to wait for a positive laboratory test to start taking antivirals.”

 

CDC tracks influenza activity year-round and publishes a report weekly on Fridays. According to this surveillance, the proportion of people seeing their health care provider for ILI in the United States has been elevated for four consecutive weeks, climbing sharply from 2.8% to 5.6% during that time. Last season, which was relatively mild, ILI peaked at 2.2 percent. Comparatively, during 1998-1999 and 2003-2004, which were moderately severe seasons, ILI peaked at 7.6%. During 2007-2008, another moderately severe season, ILI peaked at 6.0%. During the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, ILI peaked at 7.7%.

 

While the timing of influenza seasons also is impossible to predict, based on past experience it’s likely that flu activity will continue for some time. During the past 10 influenza seasons, ILI remained at or above baseline for an average of 12 consecutive weeks, with a range of 1 week (2011-2012 season) to 16 weeks (2005-2006 season). During the pandemic, the proportion of visits to doctors for ILI remained above the national baseline for 19 consecutive weeks.

 

Twenty-nine states and New York City are now reporting high levels of influenza-like-illness and another 9 states are reporting moderate levels of ILI. Ten states are still reporting low or minimal ILI. (These are California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Wisconsin). The District of Columbia and 2 states did not have enough information to calculate an activity level.

 

Information about flu-related hospitalizations is collected from 15 states to calculate a rate of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations. Right now, cumulative influenza hospitalization rates are 8.1 per 100,000 people. According to Bresee, “This is high for this time of year.”

 

Influenza-associated pediatric deaths have been reportable to CDC since the 2004-2005 season. To date, CDC has received reports of 18 pediatric deaths this season. More information about reported pediatric deaths is available at the Influenza-Associated Pediatric Mortality web application.

One factor that may indicate increased severity this season is that the predominant circulating type of influenza virus is influenza A (H3N2) viruses, which account for about 76 percent of the viruses reported. Bresee explains “typically ‘H3N2 seasons’ have been more severe, with higher numbers of hospitalizations and deaths, but we will have to see how the season plays out.”

 

So far this season, most (91%) of the influenza viruses that have been analyzed at CDC are like the viruses included in the 2012-2013 influenza vaccine. The match between the vaccine virus and circulating viruses is one factor that impacts how well the vaccine works. But Bresee cautions that other factors are involved.

 

“While influenza vaccination offers the best protection we have against influenza, it's still possible that some people may become ill despite being vaccinated,” says Bresee. “Health care providers and the public should remember that influenza antiviral medications are a second line of defense against influenza.” (For more information about why people may become sick with influenza after vaccination, see 2012-2013 season Questions and Answers.)

 

CDC has recommendations on the use of antiviral medications (sold commercially as “Tamiflu®” and “Relenza®”) to treat influenza illness. Antiviral treatment, started as early as possible after becoming ill, is recommended for any patients with confirmed or suspected influenza who are hospitalized, seriously ill, or ill and at high risk of serious influenza-related complications, including young children, people 65 and older, people with certain underlying medical conditions and pregnant women. Treatment should begin as soon as influenza is suspected, regardless of vaccination status or rapid test results and should not be delayed for confirmatory testing.

 

To estimate how well influenza vaccines work each year, CDC has been working with researchers at universities and hospitals since the 2003-2004 influenza season conducting studies using laboratory-confirmed influenza as the outcome. Interim VE estimates will be published as soon as they are available. Bresee concludes, “These estimates will provide more information about how well this season’s vaccine is working.”

 

»» Read More

HPA: Flu Activity In The UK

 

 

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While the United States and Canada have reported an early start to the flu season this year, influenza has yet to take off in Hong Kong (see latest Flu Express (Week 52, 2012), and in the UK and parts of Europe the flu season is just now starting to pick up. 

 

 

The RED LINE indicates this year’s activity, compared to previous years.  The Blue Line indicates the unusually severe 1999-2000 flu season.

 

 

This latest flu updates from the HPA.

 

HPA National Influenza Report

Report published 3 January 2013

Figures (including all those found in this report) displaying data from these schemes are available to download as a pdf file:

HPA Weekly National Influenza Graphs (PDF, 713 KB)

PDF versions of previous reports are available on the archive page.

This week's report is available as a pdf:

HPA National Influenza Report - week 1 (2013) (PDF, 665 KB)

A summary report will be published weekly. For further information on the surveillance schemes mentioned in this report, please see the Sources of UK Flu Data page.

Increases continue to be seen for several indicators of influenza activity. A letter has been issued to the NHS that GPs may now prescribe antiviral medicines for the prophylaxis and treatment of influenza in accordance with NICE guidance.

 

Flu activity update: 3 January 2013

3 January 2013

Latest figures from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) up to 30 December 2012 show that flu activity continues to increase based on a number of indicators, including GP consultation rates in England and the proportion of calls to NHS Direct.

 

The latest figures show that GP consultation rates have increased slightly from 27.4 per 100,000 in week 51 to 32.7 per 100,000 in week 52 ending on 30 December. Meanwhile, 2.1% of the calls received by NHS Direct concerned influenza compared to 1.6% in week 51.

 

Professor John Watson, head of the respiratory disease department at the HPA said:

 

“Over the Christmas period we have seen a slight rise in flu activity across several of our indicators in line with the trend we expect to see at this time of year.

 

“However, the latest data should be interpreted with caution due to GP practices being closed on the bank holidays which may have impacted on GP consultation rates.

(Continue . . . )

 

 

Elsewhere in Europe, the most recent EuroFlu report states:

 

Influenza activity is increasing slowly in the WHO European Region

Summary, week 51/2012

Influenza activity is slowly increasing with more countries in different parts of the Region reporting sporadic co-circulation of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2) and type B viruses. This week the reporting of influenza surveillance data is incomplete due to the Christmas holidays. This is reflected in the lower number of testing performed. However the percentage of influenza-positive samples from both sentinel and non-sentinel sources are similar to last week. The number of reported hospitalizations due to severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) remains similar to that seen in the previous several weeks: 1 influenza detection was reported (influenza B).

»» Read More

Flu Reports From Around The Nation

Credit CDC FluView 

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While a few states are still reporting low influenza activity, much of the nation has reported significant increases in influenza-like-illnesses during the month of December. Of concern, the predominate strain this year has been H3N2, which tends to produce a more severe season than does H1N1.

 

With the holidays over and schools scheduled to return to session this week and next, many communities are bracing for another spike in flu cases.

 

A brief round up today of some of the news reports of Flu Activity around the country.

 

First stop, Minnesota, where the latest CDC FluView report showed only moderate activity as of the 22nd of last month.

 

 

Flu cases spike in Minnesota

The Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS —

Health officials predict it could be one of the worst flu seasons in years in Minnesota.

 

Flu patients have been filling urgent care centers and emergency rooms across the state. More than 120 Minnesotans were hospitalized with the flu in the week ending Dec. 22, nearly twice the number of cases in the previous week, health officials said. And it's still early in the flu season.

 

"That suggests this has the potential to be severe," said Minnesota Department of Health infectious disease director Kris Ehresmann.

(Continue . . . )

 

 

From Florida, Sharon Sanders, editor of  FluTrackers, has been in contact with the local health department, and files this report:

 

Influenza Trends Up in Central Florida in December

Sharon Sanders - Editor FluTrackers.com

January 2, 2012

Winter Park, Florida – Reports from sentinel providers indicate that influenza and influenza-like-illness have been trending up since Thanksgiving says Dain Weister who is the Florida Department of Health spokesman for Orange and Seminole counties. “We are reaching the level of activity seen in the 2009 pandemic” he said. Figure 1 on the Florida Flu Review for week 52 in 2010 shows the progression of the 2007-2008, 2008-2009, and 2009-2010 Florida influenza seasons as monitored by three surveillance systems: ILINet, Bureau of Laboratories viral surveillance, and county activity levels.

 

The Florida Department of Health    indicates "Moderate” as the current level of influenza activity in Central Florida on its website (see map 2).

Mr. Weister reported that 2 nursing homes in the Central Florida area have experienced a flu outbreak this season. Most hospitalizations have been in the 55+ age group and most emergency room visits for flu symptoms have been in the 0-19 age range.

 

The prevalent influenza type in the area confirmed by laboratory testing is A/H3 and A/H1N1 (H1N1pdm09) has also caused some illness. Mr. Weister can reached at 407-858-1400 for further inquiries.

 

From Arizona, we get:

 

Cases of flu in AZ, across US already signal busy season

All but two Arizona counties have reported cases of the flu in what is turning out to be an early and busy season.

 

A total of 581 flu cases of the flu have been laboratory confirmed by the Arizona Department of Health Services this season, state data show. At this time last year only 10 cases had been confirmed statewide.

(Continue . . .)

 

And this report (with video from WKYC-TV) from Ohio indicates a 13-fold increase in flu cases this year, over last.

 

Ohio flu season sees rise in hospitalizations

CLEVELAND -- The Ohio Department of Health is reporting a spike in the number of people hospitalized with influenza this year compared to last year.

 

Department spokeswoman Shannon Libby says it's early to see this much flu activity, with cases typically going up in January or February.

 

According to ODH influenza reports, 65 Ohioans were hospitalized with the influenza virus from October to late December 2011. In that same period this year, the number skyrocketed to 867.

(Continue . . . )

 

 

A reminder that there are still plenty of places where you can get a flu shot, and since the peak of the season may still be a month or more away, it isn’t too late to do so.

 

In addition to the shot, the CDC recommends:

 

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.*
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu–like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

 

 

These precautionary steps can also help protect against norovirus, which is spreading misery this winter as well -although Hand Sanitizers May Be `Suboptimal’ For Preventing Norovirus.

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Stomach Flu Symptoms - Ugly Truth

Stomach flu symptoms appearance depends on incubation period of the cause, which further on depends on type of cause and immune system of infected person. However, once you get infected, in a short time you'll start experiencing symptoms, and it can happen in several hours after infection or after ten days in some cases. Once the bug has entered your body, its primary destination is your gastrointestinal tract, and when it reach there, it star a process of multiplying and reproducing itself, which will certainly cause you a nightmare for a couple of days.

Symptoms of stomach flu are an terrible experience and will bring a great suffer upon you. As I already mention in previous posts, there are several types of causes for stomach flu and that most known are viral. After them comes bacterial and parasitical. What is in common for all of these three types of causes are, symptoms!

No matter what cause stomach flu, symptoms are mostly the same. In general there are several symptoms of which you'll get some for sure. It is an luck if you have only one of them, and not several of them at the same time.

Stomach flu symptoms are: appetite loss, diarrhea, fatigue, mild fever, muscle aches, nausea, stomach cramps and chills, vomiting. In cases of mild symptoms, after only one day you can get relief from symptoms and experience only some of this symptoms. However, you should take care about nutrition and avoid dairy products, together with solid food, and get yourself on liquid diet. In other, more serious cases, symptoms can take up to ten days, and you must have a proper nutrition to get better! Liquid diet is a must, and light food after first two days until you fully recover from symptoms.

If you experience stomach flu symptoms such are vomiting and diarrhea, for more than several days, you must visit your doctor and sick for special medical treatment. The possibility of dehydration are high, and you might be hospitalized and took under infusion for several days.

Patients who suffer from frequent diarrhea and frequent vomiting at the same time, are exposed to high risk of dehydration because they lose huge amount of body liquids, and are unable to replace it by intake of liquids. Dehydration should be taken very seriously since our body is in huge percent built out of liquids. Having this in mind, much serious disorders can happen if liquids are not replaced.

Experiencing only diarrhea is a most common situation of suffering from stomach flu symptoms. Frequent watery stools are frequent in first day or two and slowly decrease by days passing. Your stomach is very sensitive in this period of time, and you have to get yourself on liquid diet until you get better and frequency of diarrhea slowly decreases, then you can start your treatment with light food. If this doesn't happen, and after several days you still have frequent diarrhea you should visit your doctor!

Do not take medicines for diarrhea because they will only worsen the situation, not to mention that you can experience side effects! Especially do not do this without consultation with your doctor! Regular medications for diarrhea are not helpful with this illness!

I found part of this information on this site, which I found very useful in understanding stomach flu symptoms. You can find there some more information, I dedicated this post mainly to understanding diarrhea and vomiting, since I suffered from them and because of they are the most common symptoms.

Hope I helped with the information and I hope you'll get better soon!

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Stomach Flu - What to Eat!?

Today I got my self almost recoverd at all, symptoms are almost gone, and I can now function pretty normally. I would like to write a brief note about food consuming during stomach flu. 

Well, when you are experiencing nausea or vomiting, and you have fever, food is the last thing you are thinking about, and even thinking about it can make you feel more worst, but you have to eat anyway. One thing is for sure, you can't eat correctly, rather you have to take care on what you are taking in. Your stomach now need special treatment and you have to take care about food you are eating, in order to help your stomach get better and heal. Light food is a must and hard food is necessary to avoid at all. Here are some advice based on my experience.

Stomach Flu - Bananas and dry toast are good combination.

Firstly I would like to point on food and drinks you must avoid if you want to get any better. Fatty and spicy food, should be forgotten for even a few days after you relief from stomach flu symptoms and not to mention during symptoms. Milk and cheese, in fact, all diary products can make your symptoms go wild, especially diarrhea. Sweets and super-sweet foods, forget them for a several days. Do not drink coffee or soda, or consume alcohol. This is an excellent opportunity to quit smoking, since you must quit it for several days, you can use the chance to relief from this bad habit..

In the first 24 hours, you must put your self on a diet with clear liquids! You are allowed to eat gelatin without sugar, and to take water. Water should not been taken in big doses, rather you should take it in small doses and more often. Apple juice mixed with water together with teas are recommended. After first 24 hours you can start with bland foods.

When you survive first 24 hours you can add bland foods to your meals. This food should be soft and easy for your digestion. Fruits should be avoided, but bananas are recommended, especially in combination with dry toast. I have tried with chicken meat, but other types of meat are forbidden for consume. Rice, pasta, apple sauce, crackers are also good for your belly in this condition. Stick with bland diet and in several days you'll get much better! Once your stomach get better, slowly add other types of food in your nutrition.

Give your stomach a special treatment, from one to five days period of time that well treated stomach flu should least, and you'll get better soon. If you don't treat it the way it should be treated, you'll suffer from symptoms much longer.

»» Read More

FluView, FluWatch, And WHO Flu Surveillance Reports

Week 50 ILI activity – Source CDC FluView

 

# 6801

 

Regardless of your preferred type of celebration (Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, the Winter Solstice, Festivus . . .) the winter holiday season often finds us gathered together in relatively closed quarters to share presents, good times, and far too often . . . germs.

 

All of which makes this week’s FluView from the CDC, Canada’s FluWatch, and World Health Organization bi-weekly Influenza Summary of particular interest.

 

The early start to this year’s flu season continues across much of the United States, with A/H3N2 by far the predominate strain being reported. While it is a bit early to talk about the severity of this year’s flu season, historically H3N2 dominated seasons have typically produced more severe illness.

 

First stop, the CDC’s FluView Report for week 50.

 

2012-2013 Influenza Season Week 50 ending December 15, 2012

All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.

Synopsis:

During week 50 (December 9-15), influenza activity increased in the U.S.

• Viral Surveillance: Of 9,562 specimens tested and reported by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories in week 50, 2,709 (28.3%) were positive for influenza.
• Pneumonia and Influenza Mortality: The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) was below the epidemic threshold.
• Influenza-Associated Pediatric Deaths: Two influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported. One was associated with an influenza A (H3) virus and one was associated with an influenza A virus for which the subtype was not determined.
• Outpatient Illness Surveillance: The proportion of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) was 3.2%; above the national baseline of 2.2%. Nine of ten regions reported ILI above region-specific baseline levels. Twelve states experienced high ILI activity, New York City and 5 states experienced moderate ILI activity; 11 states experienced low ILI activity; 22 states experienced minimal ILI activity, and the District of Columbia had insufficient data.
• Geographic Spread of Influenza: Twenty-nine states reported widespread geographic influenza activity; 12 states reported regional activity; the District of Columbia and 5 states reported local activity; 3 states reported sporadic activity; Guam reported no influenza activity, and Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 1 state did not report.

A description of surveillance methods is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/overview.htm

 

The following graphic shows just how early detection of influenza has been this year (red line), compared to previous years.

 

Meanwhile, Canada’s FluWatch report indicates that influenza is beginning to ramp up in several provinces as well.

 

Overall Influenza Summary

• Influenza activity in Canada continued to increase in week 50; four regions reported widespread activity, and the majority of regions reported influenza circulation.
• A total of 1502 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 96.7% were for influenza A viruses, predominantly A(H3N2).
• Thirty-one influenza outbreaks were reported: 24 in long-term-care facilities, 4 in hospitals and 3 in other facilities.
• Thirty-three paediatric influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported through the IMPACT network, all but one with influenza A
• Seventy-three hospitalizations with three deaths in adults ≥20 years of age were reported through Aggregate surveillance, all with influenza A.
• The ILI consultation rate increased compared to the previous week and is within the expected range for this time of year.

 

Virus characterization from Canada shows, like the United States, that A/H3N2 makes up the bulk of identified samples.

 

And globally, influenza rates in the Northern Hemisphere are beginning to rise, although many areas are lagging somewhat behind the numbers seen in North America. 

This from the World Health Organization.

 

Influenza update

21 December 2012 - Update number 175

 

Summary

• Many countries in the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere are now reporting elevated detections of influenza, particularly in north America.

 
• Influenza activity was still low in Europe, with co-circulating of both influenza A and B viruses. However increased influenza-like illnesses were reported in more countries than previous weeks.

• There was low, but increasing influenza activity in northern Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean regions, and sporadic detections in eastern Asia.

• Influenza in central America, the Caribbean and tropical south America continued to decline, with low levels of circulation of mainly influenza A(H3N2) and some influenza B viruses, except for Cuba and Peru, where influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was predominant.

• Influenza activity in Sub-Saharan Africa declined to low levels, with mainly influenza B, except in Ghana, where influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was reported.

• Influenza in most South East Asian countries was declining, except in Sri Lanka and Viet Nam.
• Influenza activity in the temperate countries of the southern hemisphere continued at inter-seasonal levels.

 

The CDC recommends a flu shot for just about everyone each year, but regardless of whether you received one, this Holiday season is a good time to hone your basic flu hygiene skills.  

 

The CDC recommends:

 

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.*
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu–like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

 

As an added bonus, these healthy hygiene habits can also help protect you against the other winter time scourge, Norovirus – which, like influenza, can wreck a family holiday gathering in record time.

»» Read More

Lancet: Low Flu Vaccine Effectiveness

 

 

 

# 6790

Yesterday The Lancet published a commentary by ECDC  Director Dr Marc Sprenger, and the head of Influenza and other Respiratory Viruses Programme Dr Angus Nicoll, on the often-disappointing effectiveness of influenza vaccines – particularly among elderly and high-risk recipients.

 

In many ways their concerns mirror those expressed  in CIDRAP’s recent Comprehensive Influenza Vaccine Initiative (CCIVI) report (see CIDRAP: The Need For `Game Changing’ Flu Vaccines) – which they cite - that also calls for improved flu vaccine technology.

 

The ECDC has a short summary of the Lancet article (see below), and a link (free, but registration required) to the Lancet Article.

 

Better seasonal influenza vaccines to improve coverage in Europe

18 Dec 2012

ECDC

To achieve increased and sustainable influenza vaccine coverage in Europe, the effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccines should be improved, especially for the clinical risk groups and older people. In their Lancet commentary published yesterday, ECDC Director Dr Marc Sprenger and Head of Influenza and other Respiratory Viruses Programme Dr Angus Nicoll look at effectiveness studies of seasonal influenza vaccines and suggest several areas for improvement.

 

While effectiveness of the influenza vaccine is influenced by the type of viruses circulating each season, independent observational studies led by ECDC and other European experts also show that, in Europe, seasonal vaccine effectiveness in the old and clinical risk groups has regularly been less than 70%. In 2009, the Council of the EU pledged regional political commitment to improve vaccine coverage, and set a national target of 75% coverage for older age groups (ie, aged 65 years and older), individuals with chronic ill health, and health-care workers. From the public perspective and a public health standpoint, more effective vaccines are needed to encourage their use and reach towards the target of vaccination coverage.

 

Importantly, since vaccine effectiveness is highest among healthy adults, a way to protect the most vulnerable groups – young children, older people and those with chronic diseases – could be by vaccinating those around them. Therefore, it is especially important for healthcare workers to get vaccinated (external link), to protect their patients as well as themselves.

 

The authors conclude by stating that vaccination remains the single most effective preventive measure against seasonal influenza, and the use of present vaccines should be strongly advocated among those for whom they are recommended.

 

The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 'Low effectiveness undermines promotion of seasonal influenza vaccine', (open access, registration needed)

 

»» Read More

Early Flu Cases Begin To Emerge

 

Photo Credit CDC Influenza Home Care Guide

# 6745

 

While it may not tell us a lot about how the rest of the 2012-2013 flu season will go, over the past couple of weeks several states have begun reporting spikes in early influenza activity.  The last FluView report from the CDC (Nov 17th) indicated flu activity was increasing in parts of the country; notably in the south central and southeastern states.

 

Likewise, the Flu Near You weekly online survey (of self reported symptoms) shows the greatest rate of ILI (Influenza-like-Illness) activity currently in the middle southern states.

 

Flu Near You map  11/29/12

 

NOTE: ILI’s can include many non-influenza viral illnesses, including adenovirus, parainfluenza, rhinovirus and others which are indistinguishable from influenza without laboratory tests (see Dozens Of Ways To Spell `I-L-I’).

 

Although `flu season’ can begin as early as October some years, it is generally December before the virus really begins to make its presence widely known. The Thanksgiving holiday, which often brings many family members together, may play a part in kick starting the epidemic each year.

 

Yesterday South Carolina’s Department of Health and Environmental Control issued the following notice, which included word of a pediatric flu fatality.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 28, 2012

Flu cases spiking early, first flu death in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control notes the state’s first flu-associated death of the season, as well as a significant and earlier-than-normal increase in influenza activity, the agency announced today.

 

“Tragically, a child from Barnwell County has become our first confirmed influenza-associated death of the season,” said Linda Bell, M.D. and interim state epidemiologist. “The flu can be especially serious for the very young and the elderly.

 

“Our latest statewide activity report indicates that influenza has quickly reached ‘widespread’ levels in South Carolina,” Dr. Bell said. “Flu activity typically peaks in February, and it is very unusual for us to see this number of cases so early in the season. Therefore, we strongly encourage vaccination to prevent the flu and its potentially serious consequences.”

(Continue . . .)

 

Similarly, reports from Central Florida indicate an early start here as well.  This from the Orlando Sentinel.

 

Flu season hitting earlier, local clinics say

1:09 p.m. EST, November 27, 2012|By Marni Jameson, Orlando Sentinel

Flu season has arrived in Central Florida, and it's well ahead of schedule, according to Dr. Tim Hendrix, medical director for CentraCare, which operates 21 clinics throughout Central Florida.

 

The CentraCare clinics saw 250 confirmed cases of the flu last week alone. That's more than a 10-fold increase in flu cases compared to Thanksgiving week last year, when the clinics reported 21 confirmed cases, said Hendrix.

(Continue . . .)

 

Other states now confirming flu activity include Arizona, Missouri, Colorado, Maine, New York and Ohio. Most surveillance reports are trailing indicators – showing us the level of activity 1 to  2 weeks ago – so the level of activity today could be different.

 

In any event, if you haven’t gotten your flu shot, now would be an excellent time to do so, as it takes a couple of weeks to begin building antibodies once you get the shot.

 

No, it won’t protect you against non-influenza viral illnesses, and the protection it provides against the flu can vary from year-to-year and person-to-person. 

 

A meta-analysis by CIDRAP in 2011 (see A Comprehensive Flu Vaccine Effectiveness Meta-Analysis) found the trivalent inactivated vaccine (TIV) had a combined efficacy of 59% among healthy adults (aged 18–65 years).

 

Still, flu shots have an excellent safety profile and remain one of the most effective preventatives against catching influenza. Beyond that, being vigilant (read: obsessive) regarding day-to-day flu hygiene is your best safeguard.

 

The CDC recommends:

 

 

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• See Everyday Preventive Actions  [257 KB, 2 pages] and Nonpharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) for more information about actions, apart from getting vaccinated and taking medicine, that people and communities can take to help slow the spread of illnesses like influenza (flu).

 

Of course, if all of these preventatives fail, stay home so you don’t share your virus with the world. If you are at high risk of complications, contact your doctor to see about taking antiviral medications.

Otherwise, CDC’s Influenza Home Care Guide should see you through.

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