Flu Basic Facts

• Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.
• It can cause mild to severe illness.
• Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death.
• Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk of serious flu complications.
• Most seasons last up to 20 weeks and we’ve probably got several weeks left of increased flu activity.

Flu Season 2017-18

• CDC tracks flu hospitalizations and deaths each year.
• Influenza A H3N2 viruses continue to dominate this season as well as H1N1, and influenza B.
• 48 states are reporting increased flu activity, higher than previous years.
• We now have a higher rate of hospitalization/death than in the previous most severe flu season (2014-’15) which had over 700,000 hospitalizations by season’s end.

Flu Shot, Yes

• Get the the flu vaccine.
• Most flu vaccines have low effectiveness against H3N2 viruses, effectiveness against other flu viruses is better
• The vaccine may also reduce the severity of symptoms if you catch the flu in spite of being vaccinated.
• It is not too late to get the vaccine.
• Vaccine against pneumococcal pneumonia recommended for people 65 years of age and over.

Vulnerable populations

• Children
• Pregnant Women
• Elderly
• Chronic illness
• Immunocompromised
• Healthy adults who transmit flu to one of the above

“Boosting” your immunity

• Immunity is a system with many parts. There is little clear data on how to improve
• Vaccines rev up one type of immunity and prepare it to fight a particular bacteria or virus
• Keep viruses and bacteria out
• Avoid closed, crowded spaces
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Cover to cough or sneeze
• Staying healthy overall
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
  • Get adequate sleep.
  • Try to minimize stress.
• Be skeptical about buying products (remember there is little data to show that any one thing boosts your immunity)