Prevent the Flu Before it Strikes

When it comes to the flu, it’s best to stomp the bug before it stomps you.

Though it’s too early to predict exactly what should be expected for flu season this year, experts have found that two lineages of influenza B are circulating throughout the world. Children are expected to be particularly susceptible, due to lack of exposure, while adults might have partial immunity.

"This is a matter for concern, however ongoing surveillance will keep us up-to- date," said Dr. William P. Glezen, a professor in the department of molecular virology and microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine.

The flu is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs, which can be spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of flu include sore throat, headaches, body aches, fever, chills, dry cough, fatigue and loss of appetite. To minimize chances of coming down with the flu, experts recommend that individuals in high-risk categories receive an annual flu shot. This includes people over age 65, people with heart and lung disease, people with immune system disorders, health care workers, children on long-term aspirin treatment and pregnant women who are in the second or third trimester during flu season.

"Vaccine will be produced on schedule this year, and will be distributed accordingly to ensure maximum protection against the spread of influenza," said Dr. Glezen, also professor and head of the preventative medicine section in the department of pediatrics at Baylor.

For more information on how to prevent and treat the flu, visit the Baylor Web site at http://www.bcm.tmc.edu/pa/flucenter.htm.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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