If you haven't gotten a flu shot yet, there is still time to get one
News stories about how bad the influenza virus is this year are everywhere and you probably know at least one person or family member here in Chester County, PA who has come down with a severe case of the illness. So why does it seem that the flu is so much worse this year than it was last year? To address this question, we reached out to Charlee Faucette, MT, Director of Infection Prevention at Chester County Hospital in West Chester, PA.
Q: Why does it seem as though influenza is worse this year than last year?
Faucette: There are two factors to consider when you describe the flu as being “worse.” The first would be the amount of flu cases – or how many people in a particular area are diagnosed with influenza. At Chester County Hospital (CCH), the number of cases we have seen this season are within normal range when compared with previous years.
In 2016, the number of influenza diagnoses at Chester County Hospital was low through February and then we had an influx of cases in March. The hospital has begun to experience a spike in cases so it will be interesting to see how the illness trends in our area over the next few weeks. The Pennsylvania Department of Health recently shared data that showed Chester County, PA has the lowest number of documented flu cases in the region.
The second factor to consider is the severity of the flu. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been significant deaths related to the flu across the country. Those most susceptible to flu complications are the elderly, children under the age of five, pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems. These deaths are not necessarily from the flu but from secondary illnesses patients develop, like pneumonia.
Q: Why doesn't the flu shot prevent getting the flu?
Faucette: A CDC report confirmed that this year's influenza vaccine is not an exact match for the strain of flu that is circulating – H3N2. As a result, the potency of the vaccine is between 30 to 60 percent effective in preventing the flu.
While the percentage of prevention is low, vaccinations are still highly recommended. Getting a flu shot is between 50 to 60 percent effective in preventing the most severe form of the illness. This means you won’t get as sick and the illness will not last as long.
Q: Is it too late to get the influenza vaccine?
Faucette: No – flu season runs from October 1 to March 30. If you haven't gotten a flu shot yet there is still time to get one. It takes about two weeks for someone to develop immunity after having the vaccine administered.
Q: What can people do to protect themselves from the flu?
Faucette: Incorporating the following tips into your daily activities can reduce your risk of contracting influenza.
- Wash your hands. Washing your hands is the first and most important step in staying healthy.
- Avoid being around people who are obviously sick or who tell you they have the flu.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Get enough sleep, eat well – give your body the best chance at having a robust immune system so that it can fight off illness.
- If you do find yourself sick and you don’t feel better in a day or two – call your health care provider to ensure you aren’t developing a secondary infection that could put you at risk of serious complications.
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