According to the latest information from the CDC – flu, and flu-like illness, has now reached the epidemic level in the U.S. and Alabama is one of 22 states now experiencing a high level of flu-like illness.
Nationwide, 28% of those specimens evaluated for the week ending December 20th tested positive for influenza – while the number was 21% for Region 4 – which includes Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, North and South Carolina and Tennessee.
Since September 28th a total of 15 children have died from the flu, with four of the children being from Region 4, however none of those deaths occurred in Alabama.
Latest reports show that about 97% of the confirmed flu cases during week 51 are Type A – otherwise known as the Switzerland strain; that strain is NOT one of the flu types that were compiled for this year’s flu vaccine, meaning the vaccine is much less likely to protect those taking the shot from the flu now circulating.
Alabama State Health Officer Don Williamson is still urging people to get a flu shot because it does protect people from the strains included in the vaccine, and it can make illness from Type A less severe in those suffering with the illness.
The CDC recommends staying away from those who are already ill and washing your hands frequently throughout the day, to reduce the spread of germs. Those who are sick with the flu should stay home for at least 24 hours even after all signs of fever have disappeared.
(al.com/www.al.com)
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