There’s still time to get a flu shot

Please do not be misled by reports that this year's flu shot doesn't protect from strains of the virus currently circulating in Iowa. Getting inoculated still is the best protection against becoming ill and endangering others.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, three flu viruses are circulating - A(H3N2), A(H1N1) and B. The most predominant is A(H3N2) and, unfortunately, its presence often signals a more severe flu season with increased hospitalizations and death.

All three of these strains are a part of this year's vaccines, although some may offer only partial coverage of A(H3N2). Since this season has been projected by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to be quite severe, partial protection is undoubtedly better than none at all.

Receiving a flu shot not only helps to prevent the virus from gaining a foothold, but can help reduce some symptoms if the flu is contracted. It is also vitally important for the most physically vulnerable - children under age 6, the elderly, those with chronic conditions and pregnant women - to be as protected as possible from these viruses.

The flu has claimed the lives of 22 children nationwide this season, and health experts warn spread of the disease will continue to rise over the next several weeks. Among this year's youth fatalities are two Iowa girls, ages 3 and 14, and one Iowa boy, age 7. There were no extenuating health risk factors.

While adult deaths from the flu are not tracked by the CDC, the number of deaths in which pneumonia or influenza was listed was at an 'epidemic threshold” for the week that ended on Dec. 20.

Exact fatality statistics for Iowa are being confirmed by the IDPH, but state officials are predicting 1,000 Iowans will die this year from influenza or its complications.

In response to the ongoing outbreak, several Iowa medical facilities have tightened visitor restrictions. People who show any symptoms are not allowed to visit patients and all visitors to patients with the flu are required to wear face masks.

The best protection for individuals is to get a shot and keep your well-washed hands away from your face.

About 650,000 flu shots have been given to Iowans this season, which is similar to previous years. A slim segment of the population, such as those allergic to eggs, should not have the vaccine.

Everyone else, however, should be doing what they can to stop the spread.

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