Flu season has started, and it arrived earlier than anticipated. And, while healthcare officials are concerned about this year's strain of the flu, vaccinations are still strongly encouraged.
One thing healthcare officials are very concerned about is the effectiveness of this year's vaccine.
According to a report released by the CDC last week, the primary strain of the virus for this year -- Influenza A (H3N2) -- has mutated, and is making the flu vaccine less effective.
Stoddard County Public Health Program Director Amy Hector said the news shouldn't discourage people from getting the flu shot, though.
"Based on the information we have received, about 50 percent of the cases of H3N2 have drifted, so the vaccine isn't working as well," said Hector. "But it is important to get the flu shot, because it does help reduce symptoms and complications of the flu, if you get it."
Hector explained that, historically, Stoddard County has a higher mortality rate when the common strain of flu is H3N2.
"As of right now, about 95 percent of our reported flu cases in Stoddard County have been H3N2," Hector explained. "The percentage for the entire state is about 92 percent being H3N2. The flu shot may not be as effective, but it will still give you some protection."
In the past, this strain has been linked to higher rates of hospitalization and death, especially for those at high risk for complications, which is usually the very young, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma or heart problems.
Hector said the reported cases in Stoddard County this year have primarily been among children. And, while this year's version of the vaccine is not as protective against a mutated strain, it can still decrease the severity of illness caused by the virus. It can also protect against other circulating strains of the virus, which is why the CDC still recommends getting the vaccine.
"People seem to forget that there are flu-related deaths every year," Hector remarked. "I won't be surprised if we have some deaths here as a result of this strain."
Hector advised that all the usual preventive methods should still be observed.
"Hand washing, disinfecting surfaces, and covering your nose and mouth with your arm when you cough or sneeze -- all these things should be practiced," Hector remarked. "And, if you're sick, stay home. That is so important, and a lot of people don't do it. If you're sick, just stay home and rest. Don't go out and risk spreading it."
Hector said she is confident with the information that gets reported to the Stoddard County Health Department.
"Our local healthcare officials are really good about reporting to us," Hector said. "Some of the out of town providers aren't quite as good about reporting; but, the ones we have in Stoddard County are really good about it."
Hector explained that the CDC is also encouraging doctors to push anti-viral medications on patients who have contracted H3N2. Anti-viral medications can reduce symptoms, shorten the length of time of the illness, and may keep people out of the hospital.
"It usually needs to be administered within 48 hours of the diagnosis to be most effective," Hector remarked. "I hope we don't see too many complications with this year's flu; but, historically speaking, I believe we will."
Flu shots are now available at the Stoddard County Health Department on a walk-in basis.