Nov 18, 2008

Influenza in Maryland, November 2008

The Baltimore Sun is reporting that influenza has arrived in Maryland...
"It's here: Laboratory tests have detected the state's first seasonal
flu virus in a sample taken from a sick child in the Baltimore area,
according to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.


The Type A (H1) flu's arrival comes several weeks earlier than last
year's first lab-confirmed influenza case. Flu symptoms include fever,
body aches, fatigue, coughing and sore throat.


Health Secretary John M. Colmers urged Marylanders who have not already
done so to get a flu vaccination. 'It's not too late ... and supplies
are plentiful,' he said. Vaccination is recommended for children aged
six months to 18 years; adults 50 and older, pregnant women and others
with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems and those caring for
them.


Nationally, flu activity remains low, with lab-confirmed cases reported
in 21 states, and no deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention."




So get your flu shot now!

ShareThis