Influenza season Doctors urge citizens to get vaccinated as soon as possible

Flu season Doctors urge citizens to get vaccinated as soon as possible (Alberta Times) As in previous years, the flu comes with the holidays. The State Department of Health Services and Maricopa County Public...

Flu season, doctors urge citizens to get vaccinated as soon as possible (Alberta Times) As in previous years, the flu comes with the holidays. The state Department of Health Services and the Maricopa County Department of Public Health confirmed the first two cases of influenza in the state. One of the patients is a woman in her 70s who had not been vaccinated before. The other patient is a man in his 30s. It is unclear whether he has been vaccinated. Fortunately, both patients are recovering. Dr. England, director of the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, said: "These two cases are just the tip of the iceberg. We know that many people who are experiencing the flu are not included in our statistics. These people should stay home, drink plenty of fluids, and do not need to see their doctor." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta recommends that young children as young as 6 months old and the elderly and frail people should get a flu shot. And each vaccine protects against at least three influenza viruses. Getting vaccinated not only protects yourself, but also protects those around you who are vulnerable to influenza, such as those over 65, pregnant women, young children and people with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease. To find a flu shot clinic, call 602-324-2814 (Metro Phoenix) or 1-877-764-2670 (statewide). In addition to getting vaccinated, experts say it’s important to practice good hygiene. Doctors say you should wash your hands often. If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading germs. Flu symptoms spread quickly and include fever, headache and muscle aches, chills, fatigue, cough and runny or stuffy nose. Although the flu is a year-round disease, flu season usually runs from October to late May. In Arizona. Usually the worst season is early in the year. Last year, the state recorded nearly 10,000 cases and five children died from the flu virus.