If you are thinking that this year’s flu season seems particularly bad, you are correct.  A new flu variant is causing concern as it surges across the U.S.  Severe symptoms have led to a rise in hospitalizations, especially among young children, the elderly, and those who have not been vaccinated.

What is this new version of the flu?

Most of the severe infections this year are due to a new variant of influenza A H3N2, called subclade K.  It spreads quickly and is responsible for the highest number of flu cases in more than 30 years.  While the current flu vaccine is unlikely to fully protect people, it still provides some protection from severe illness.

Recognizing Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms come on suddenly and can range from mild to severe.  Typical flu symptoms are fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, cough, runny nose or congestion, fatigue, and headache.  Vomiting or diarrhea sometimes occur, more commonly among children.  Those most vulnerable for severe illness include young children, the elderly, those with compromised immune systems, and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, lung disease, and heart, kidney, and liver disease.

A concerning complication of flu is shortness of breath or trouble breathing, which could indicate pneumonia.  People with chronic lung disease are particularly vulnerable.  Other complications include bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, and myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).

Tips to Avoid Getting Flu

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.  Hand sanitizer is not as effective as hand washing.
• Wipe down commonly touched surfaces frequently, including door knobs, light switches, refrigerator handles, and TV remotes.  Flu viruses can live on surfaces for 8 hours.
• Avoid touching your face, mouth, and eyes.
• Wear a mask, preferably an N95 mask, if you must have contact with someone who has the flu.
• Use a home humidifier to help keep inside air from becoming too dry.  Flu viruses circulate better in dry environments.
• Get enough sleep each night.  Sleep helps boost the body’s immune system.
• Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
• Get a flu shot.  It’s not too late!  Flu season often peaks in February but can last into March or April.  The flu vaccine can help protect against serious illness.  It takes approximately 2 weeks after receiving the shot for the body to develop protective antibodies to fight the flu virus.

RMD Primary Care

RMD Primary Care has been serving the Lawrenceville area for more than 15 years.  Our doctors are fluent in English and Spanish.  We provide care for adults and children.