Saturday, January 26, 2013
The brunt of the flu virus may have passed, but other strains of the virus are keeping the number of flu-like illnesses high in Maryland.
The flu strain that has been making many sick in Maryland and around the country may be peaking, but that doesn't mean it's time to cease precautions and skip the flu shot. Other strains could circulate, keeping the flu around for months. Overall, the intensity of flu-like illnesses in Maryland remains high, according to the latest Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene report for the week ending Jan. 19. The influenza virus was geographically widespread according to the last report, meaning there is flu activity throughout different regions, said David Blythe, a medical epidemiologist with the state. While the virus is difficult to predict, he said there is a possibility the flu has peaked and is headed toward a decline. Even …
Friday, January 18, 2013
Yes, but some stores struggle to keep the vaccine in stock.
Even though flu numbers may be dropping in Maryland, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that as of Jan. 5 (the most recent data available), 48 states, including Maryland and Virginia, continued to see "widespread" influenza activity, with California, Mississippi and Washington, DC, showing only "local" activity. The CDC's website recommends that "[the] single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year." However, it may be challenging to find a flu shot in your area. In Montgomery County, at least one CVS in Wheaton is finding it difficult to keep the vaccine in stock. "We do have the flu vaccine if you come in today," pharmacy technician Luis Velasco said this week. "Last Thursday, we ran out…
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Flu season typically begins in October and can run through May. Find out what you need to know to protect yourself and your family.
Montgomery County health officials on Wednesday released the county's 2012-2013 schedule of free flu vaccination clinics. “Flu season is around the corner and vaccination is the best way to protect against getting the flu," county health officer Dr. Ulder J. Tillma said in a news release. "I urge everyone over the age of six months to get vaccinated.” Free flu vaccines will be offered at two Rockville clinics. FluMist nasal spray vaccines will be offered to healty children age 3 to 18 by appointment from 9 a.m. to noon on Nov. 5 at Richard Montgomery High School. Flu shots only will be offered to all ages by appointment from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 13 at the Universities at Shady Grove. Click here for a listing of other county flu …
