« Disabled LNG tanker has power, no propulsion | Today | Pawtucket bridge work will close some side streets »

February 13, 2008

Flu season reaches its peak, shots recommended

As if the weather is not reason enough to stay home, it’s peak influenza season in Rhode Island, according to the state Department of Health.

Not only is the flu “widespread” in the state, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning several of this year’s flu strains are not covered by this year’s vaccine.

But that doesn’t mean the flu shot isn’t a good idea, according to health officials. The vaccine has three strains of influenza virus; the antibodies that an immune system makes to all three can still give some protection against the related strains.

“While the vaccine may not be 100 percent effective at preventing all strains of influenza circulating this year, it can still protect many people,” Director of Health David Gifford said.

“Getting vaccinated could mean the difference between getting mildly sick and having serious flu-related complications. And for older or immuno-compromised people, the vaccine can save their lives.”

And of course, remember: wash your hands often with warm, soapy water; cover your mouth and your nose with tissue or your arm when you sneeze; stay away from people who are sick; and, for everyone else’s sake, if you or your kids are sick, stay home.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson  at 2:45 PM | Permalink

Comments

CDC | February 13, 2008 6:45 PM link

Post a comment

Please be civil. Vicious comments, personal attacks and profanity won't be published. Name and email are required; email address will not publish.

Name:

Email Address:

URL:
Remember Me? YesNo

Comments: (you may use HTML tags for style)