Have you been vaccinated yet?

 

HEALTHY HOLIDAYS 

Taking the Proper Precautions this Holiday Season 

 

Getting Vaccinated is Still the Best Safeguard Against Influenza

 

The 2014-2015 flu season may be severe, according to information released by CDC, with the possibility of more hospitalizations and deaths. Although, the current influenza vaccine appears to be less effective against the dominant A (H3N2) influenza strain this year, it still remains the best way to protect yourself against getting the flu.
 
"It's still important to get vaccinated," said Dr. DiOrio, medical director of ODH. "The flu vaccine has been found to provide some protection against drifted viruses. It also offers protection against circulating influenza strains for which the vaccine remains well-matched, such as Influenza A (H1N1) and B viruses"(ThePennNews.com).

As long as flu viruses are spreading, it’s not too late to get a vaccine to protect yourself.  The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. The flu vaccine is available as a shot and as a nasal spray. Talk to your doctor or other health care professional about which vaccine is best for you. 

 

Health Center Staff, Remember to...

 

It is important for health center staff and all patients to get the flu vaccine.  Flu symptoms can be mistaken for other diseases. Symptoms can show as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue, and miserable days spent in bed. OACHC's Dr. Wymyslo would like to reinforce the importance of "advising patients and providers to remember to treat the flu with antivirals within 48 hours of onset of symptoms to achieve their maximum benefit in decreasing severity of symptoms and duration of illness."   

For the best likelihood of staying flu-free this holiday season, get your flu shot and take preventative measures to lessen the chance of spreading germs.

 

Influenza Resources

 

• More information about influenza and flu activity in Ohio is available at www.flu.ohio.gov. 
• Here are some tips on Reducing Healthcare Workers' Exposures to Seasonal Flu Virus
• Review these good health habits that will help you learn about steps you can take to protect yourself and others from the flu and stop the spread of germs. 
• You can also view Prevention Strategies for Seasonal Influenza in Healthcare Settings here.
• Take the CDC Flu Vaccination Pledge, if you have or are planning to protect yourself, and others around you, from influenza. 

Happy Holidays Everyone!