Vaccine and simple steps can reduce the spread of influenza

Bill Wilson

Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008 | midnight

Every year at this time, emergency rooms and urgent care clinics start to get clogged up with people who have contracted the influenza virus, or flu. This year, certainly, is no exception.

Of course, prevention of the flu is preferable to catching and then having to get over it. So, gentle reader, continue on and know thine enemy.

Q: What is influenza?

A: Influenza (flu) is a viral infection in the nose, throat and lungs. About 10 percent to 20 percent of Americans get the flu each year. Some people get very sick. Every year, roughly 130,000 people go to a hospital with the flu, and about 20,000 of them die because of complications.

The flu may cause fever, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Some people describe the flu as being like the worst cold of their life. Most people feel better after one or two weeks.

Q: Who is at higher risk of contracting flu?

A: Some people have a higher risk of flu complications, like pneumonia. At-risk groups are:

• All children from six to 59 months old.
• People 65 years or older.
• All women who are or will be pregnant during the flu season.
• Residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
• Individuals with pre-existing health problems.
• Children 6 months to 18 years old who are on chronic aspirin therapy.
• Health care workers.

Q: How can I avoid getting the flu?

A: The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get the influenza vaccine each fall, before the flu season. The vaccine is available by shot or by nasal spray.

The vaccine works by exposing your immune system to the flu virus. Your body will build up antibodies to the virus to protect you from getting the flu.

The flu shot contains dead viruses. The nasal-spray vaccine contains live but weakened viruses. You cannot get the flu from shot or nasal spray vaccines. Some people who get the vaccine will still get the flu, but they will usually get a milder case than people who aren't vaccinated.

Q: Is there anyone who shouldn't get the flu shot?

A: Yes, talk to your doctor if your are in one of the following groups:

• People who have had an allergic reaction to the shot in the past.
• People with allergies to eggs.
• People who previously have developed Guillain-Barré syndrome within six weeks of getting a flu shot.

Q: Is there anyone who shouldn't get the nasal spray vaccination?

A: Yes. The following people should talk to their doctor:

• Children younger than 5 years old.
• Adults 50 years and older.
• People with long-term health problems.
• People with weakened immune systems.
• People with Guillain-Barré syndrome .
• Children on chronic aspirin therapy.
• Pregnant women.
• People who are allergic to eggs.

Q: What are other steps that can be taken to prevent the flu?

A: Avoid close contact with infected people. If you are sick, keep your distance from others. Do not go to your job or school.

In addition, you can:

• Cover your mouth or nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash your hands often.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands.

If you have further questions please contact the Boulder City Fire Department at 293-9228

Bill Wilson, a firefighter-paramedic for the Boulder City Fire Department, can be reached at 293-9228.