Season’s First Case of Influenza A Confirmed in Douglas County

            A man in his 30s who traveled outside the United States has been confirmed as Douglas County and Nebraska’s first case of influenza A for this flu season, according to Dr. Adi Pour, director of the Douglas County Health Department. The man first reported flu-like symptoms last week and has recovered after seeking medical treatment.   

            “This is about eight weeks earlier than our first case of the last flu season,” Dr. Pour said.  “The Health Department is encouraging anyone who has not received this year’s flu shot to do so as soon as possible, since we now have a confirmed case of flu in the community.”

            The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages everyone over six months of age to get vaccinated as soon as possible against the seasonal influenza. Vaccination is especially encouraged for pregnant women.

             “This is the time to remember basic good health practices, like handwashing, covering your cough and staying home when you are sick,” Dr. Pour said. “All of those will help slow the spread of the flu.”

            The new 2011-2012 seasonal flu vaccine is available from a variety of sources. That includes private healthcare providers and pharmacies. Your health insurance or Medicare may cover the cost, while many employers offer flu clinics at little or no expense to their workers.

            Remember, if you choose to get a flu shot, it is advisable to do so as soon as possible, since it takes up to two weeks before the vaccine can provide any immunity. The vaccine protects against three strains of influenza including the strain of H1N1 that caused the 2009 pandemic.

            It is never easy to predict what will happen during the flu season, but the results can be severe. According to the CDC, during a period of 30 years between 1976 and 2006, estimates of flu-associated deaths in the United States ranged from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people.