Flu Season is upon us

  • Published
  • By 2nd Medical Group
  • Public Health
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The number of respiratory illnesses is starting to slightly increase at Barksdale. This is no surprise to many as we move through what we traditionally call this time of year as the "flu season". The 2nd Medical Group documented several laboratory confirmed influenza cases already so we know it is here to stay. The question now is, "What can you expect for this year's flu season?"

The flu is unpredictable in a number of ways. Although we see some type of outbreak or epidemic each year, the timing, severity and length of the seasons vary mainly because not all flu viruses are treated equally. They constantly change so it isn't unusual to see new strains pop up. So far, Public Health is monitoring mild to moderate respiratory illnesses on base with symptoms ranging from fever, cough and sore throat to runny or stuffy nose, body aches and tiredness. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, most people who get the flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people may develop complications, such as pneumonia, as a result of the flu, some of which can be life-threatening. This might mean more time spent away from school or work. The good news is the flu can be prevented.

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. While there are many different flu viruses, the vaccine is designed to protect against the three to four main flu strains that research indicates will cause the most illness during the flu season. The flu vaccine is available to our beneficiaries at the 2nd MDG Immunization Clinic. Other important flu prevention steps include good personal hygiene habits like regular hand washing with soap and water, covering your coughs and sneezes with tissue, avoiding sick people where possible and wiping down objects and surfaces that are commonly touched. Staying home when you are sick is a good way to keep the flu from spreading to others. Talk to your health care provider for information about specific treatment measures.

While there is no sure way to completely eliminate your chances of getting the flu this season, following these basic prevention steps will greatly decrease your risk of illness. For more information on the flu or the flu vaccine, visit the CDC website http://www.cdc.gov/flu or call the Public Health Office at 456-6703.