Typically flu season is usually thought of as occurring in winter however, the severity and timing varies from year to year. As per researchers going back to the last 35 years, flu activity in the United States peaks in February. To best protect yourself and your family regardless of the specific timeframe, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) always recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October. (CDC, 2021) Fall Flu Season In general, flu season can start anytime … [Read more...] about When Is Flu Season?
World Immunization Week
World Immunization Week is always celebrated in the last week of April (April 24-30) with a goal to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease. Immunizations save many lives every year and are recognized as one of the world's most successful, cost-effective interventions. However, there are still nearly 20 million children in the world, who are still not able to get the vaccines they need or require. Alternatively, there are parents who choose not to vaccinate … [Read more...] about World Immunization Week
Prenatal Infection Prevention
Ways to Prevent Disease and Infection Before and During Pregnancy International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month happens each February and is a worldwide observance to promote awareness of infections transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy or during the delivery process. Prenatal infection prevention is essential for the wellbeing of the infant and the protection of the mother. (US Dept. of Health 2013) The incidence of prenatal infection depends on the causative agent; … [Read more...] about Prenatal Infection Prevention
What Are The Symptoms of The Flu?
Flu symptoms are elusive. We hear symptoms of illness described as “flu-like”. What does that mean? How can you know if what you are feeling is a cold, or something more serious like the flu? If you’ve ever had the flu virus, you know. Fever, body aches, sneezing, cough, weakness, and sometimes even vomiting are part of what makes up the flu. That sounds pretty awful. Anyone surviving a bout of the flu feels like they should have gotten a t-shirt to commemorate their accomplishment. There are … [Read more...] about What Are The Symptoms of The Flu?
Flu Prevention Tips
Preventing the flu must be intentional when it’s flu season. Many of us feel vulnerable, even though flu vaccines exist. We’ve heard stories about flu complications and are aware that such complications can worsen symptoms and even result in death. It’s something no one wants to think about. So, we stay vigilant and we are tasked with staying on top of information that can minimize the risk of acquiring the influenza virus. Who Is Keeping Watch on Flu Outbreaks? The Centers for Disease … [Read more...] about Flu Prevention Tips
After The Flu Vaccine: Best Practices
Best Practices After Getting a Flu Vaccine Knowing what to do after getting a flu vaccine can save lives. Should you be confident that you are protected from contracting Influenza? Seasonal Influenza shots protect against the three or four Influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. There are several flu prevention options to choose from, but the most important practice is for all people 6 months and older to get an Influenza vaccine every year. If … [Read more...] about After The Flu Vaccine: Best Practices
Do I Have A Cold Or The Flu?
Colds and Flu Types Is it the cold or flu? Sneezing, coughing, fever, body aches, stomach distress are symptoms of a number of illnesses. How do you know the difference between the common cold and the flu? Common Cold Symptoms The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. If symptoms exceed comfort levels, it is time to see a doctor. (Mayo … [Read more...] about Do I Have A Cold Or The Flu?
Why Flu Vaccines Fail
Why Flu Vaccines Fail and What to Do When They Do Medical Science is aware that flu vaccines can fail. Why get a flu shot if you can still get the flu? That is a complex question. It’s important to be informed about diseases that can affect our health. We are our own patient advocates when it comes to our health and our family’s health. Our goal is for our local families to be informed, especially when certain illnesses like the flu can result in serious, life-threatening complications. … [Read more...] about Why Flu Vaccines Fail
Flu Vaccine Facts
When it comes to the flu vaccine, there are decisions to make. As a community healthcare provider, we are often asked questions about flu vaccine effectiveness, when to get the flu vaccine, what ages are affected most by the flu and what are flu vaccine side-effects. The most vulnerable populations when it comes to illness are the very young and the elderly. Infant bodies are working hard to build immunities. The elderly may have compromised immunities as a result of other illness or may be … [Read more...] about Flu Vaccine Facts
