2018- Influenza Vaccine

     The ‘flu’ is exceptionally virulent this season, especially hard hit are young children and adults older than age 65.
     Everyone should be vaccinated, exceptions are those individuals who have a severe egg allergy and those who have had Guillain-Barre' syndrome within 6 months of a previous influenza vaccination.
     Persons, previously vaccinated or not, who do contract the ‘flu’ should receive a 5 day course of Tamiflu 75 mg twice a day, beginning no later than and preferably earlier than 48 hours following the beginning of symptoms. Tamiflu is not over the counter, but is a prescription medication.
     Percautionary measures that will help protect from the ‘flu’ include:

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or with an antibacterial gel
2. Avoid crowds and public places
3. Avoid persons with an upper respiratory tract infection, especially those individuals with runny noses, fever and a bad cough. Infectious cough droplets can travel 8-10 feet from the source.

     Consult your personal physician for any questions and/or clarifications.