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2011-2012 Flu Season

Flu season is upon us. This information may help you prepare to prevent the flu and what to do if you get it.

Flu season is from October to April with a peak in February. There are three strains, which include H1N1, H3N2, and the B strain.

The most vulnerable to flu are our elderly. Any bacterial infection and/or pneumonia can land the elderly in the hospital.

The most commonly asked question is who should get the vaccine. The answer is people with respiratory diseases, diabetes, age 65 and older, pregnant, or have cancer and healthcare workers.

The flu vaccine is administered as a shot or a nasal mist.

To help prevent spreading the flu virus, get vaccinated and wash your hands often with soap and water. Also, stay home when you have flu symptoms and see your doctor. Your doctor may put you on Tamiflu in the early stages of the flu. The symptoms are rapid onset of cough, fever, body aches, and fatigue.

For more information on the flu, browse the following website:

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/.