It almost seems impossible to not write about the flu each year once flu season starts. This is especially true because of the sudden and drastic rise in cases in our area over the last few weeks.
The state of Virginia is currently seeing widespread influenza-like illness (ILI) activity. The CDC currently indicates we are in the moderate to high activity range, as are states that border us including North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Information regarding national and regional flu activity is available to the public at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/index.htm#ILIMap.
Last year and the year prior, the peak for the flu season was at the end of December and into early January. This year, the rise in cases began in mid-February with a rapid climb over the last couple of weeks.
There are three influenza viruses, types A, B, and C. Epidemics of types A and B are seen during the winter months in the U.S. Type C is thought to cause mild illness but not epidemics. The viruses can mutate over time. Antibodies your immune system made last year to the virus, either by receiving the vaccine or by getting the flu, may not recognize this year’s flu virus. This is why the vaccine is offered yearly, to protect against both past and new strains. These small differences in the virus also mean you could get the flu more than once during the winter season.
This year we are again seeing more of the type A influenza virus, particularly H1N1. Fortunately, this year’s vaccine has been very effective in protecting those who received the immunization. Most of the cases of flu around the country and in our area have been seen in those who did not get the vaccine.
Influenza is a respiratory illness. That is, it infects the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and lungs. Oftentimes individuals mistakenly describe an illness with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea as “the flu.” The primary symptoms of influenza, however, are high fever, cough, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, sore throat, and stuffy or runny nose. Stomach symptoms are much more common in children than in adults.
The virus is highly contagious. It is generally transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets, from coughing or sneezing. An infected individual can begin spreading the virus one day before developing any symptoms, up to seven days after the onset of symptoms.
The annual flu vaccine is the primary line of defense against influenza infections. During flu season, thorough and frequent handwashing is extremely important. You should try not to come in contact with those who have been diagnosed with the flu, as much as is possible. Individuals who have the flu should also avoid contact with others. Proper rest and nutrition will help the body’s immune system function optimally to fight off infections.
Antiviral medications can be used in some cases of the flu. When used for treatment, antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by one or two days. Usually they work best if started within two days of the onset of symptoms. These medications are not traditional antibiotics and they can only be obtained by prescription. Check with your doctor if you start to have flu symptoms.
The content in this column is for informational purposes only. Consult your physician for appropriate individual treatment. Dr. Reynolds practices Family Medicine in Chesterfield.
