Flu Outbreak Continues To Get Worse

Many states are experiencing severe flu outbreaks this winter and one of those states is New York.  In Broome County health officials report this flu season is "unprecedented".

In a press release made available from the Broome County Health Department on Monday officials stated that the number of flu cases reported is up to 1,310.  That surpasses the last two flu seasons and more than doubles the number of lab cases reported last flu season during the peak weak.

Flu season is far from over and can stretch into May.  In the release Broome County Director of Public Health Rebecca Kaufman states that "now is the time to get vaccinated. The more people vaccinated the less flu will be circulating in our community."

Health experts suggest the flu vaccine administered this season is less effective than in recent years. Vaccine this season may be only 33 percent effective.  Even if that is the case it can still lessen the severity of the flu should you become infected.

According to health officials this season's flu symptoms include a sore throat, fever, cough, runny nose, chills, fatigue, body aches and chills.  In some cases diarrhea and vomiting are reported.  None of these symptoms are please.  Even after most of the symptoms are gone respiratory symptoms and fatigue can linger for weeks or months.

For additional information on flu prevention and treatment you can go online to:

www.gobroomecounty.com/clinics/immunizations or

www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/