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OAKLAND – This nasty "winter" disease, the flu, is spreading more and more across the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have just released a report that about 6 million Americans have been ill with the flu so far this season. Influenza can cause sore throat, fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue, and can deteriorate into pneumonia and respiratory distress.
The number of states reporting widespread activity increased from 24 to 30 for the last reporting week ending January 5th. Pediatric deaths related to influenza are reported so far this season.
"In Maryland, we are seeing more and more cases of influenza activity and Garrett County is not spared," says Cindy Mankamyer, Registered Nurse, Communicable Disease Nurse at the Department of Health. . "The flu season is not over yet and it's not too late to get vaccinated. An influenza vaccine can prevent infections and reduce the severity of flu complications.
"We expect to see more flu cases here, and we certainly do not want to see a repeat of last season where the number of influenza cases in the country was one of the highest in the world. recent history, "said Mankamyer. "Children can be particularly affected by the flu: tragically, the flu killed 185 children last year in the country, including Maryland."
CDC recommends that babies be vaccinated against influenza from 6 months. This vaccine is especially important for people with health conditions such as heart or lung disease, diabetes or any other disease that weakens the immune system.
The Department of Health still has a good supply of influenza vaccines for all ages, including pediatric formulations and a high-dose version recommended for those 65 years of age and older. Also available is Flu Mist, the nasal spray flu vaccine for healthy people ages 2 to 49 years.
For more information, call 301-337-7770 or toll free at Grantsville at 301-895-3111.
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