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Health officials provide flu update

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Maria Bowman
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials report that Influenza activity continues to increase in the U.S. and most of the country is now experiencing high levels of influenza-like-illness.

Joe Bresee, chief of the epidemiology and prevention branch in the CDC's influenza division said, "Reports of influenza-like-illnesses are nearing what have been peak levels during moderately severe seasons. Anyone who has not already been vaccinated should do so now."

Scott AFB is also experiencing an increase in local flu activity.

"Currently, there are 11 laboratory confirmed cases here," said 1st Lt. Mossaab Benhammou, 375th Medical Group Public Health. "This is an increase from the two cases identified early in December."

The base immunization clinic is working to prepare Team Scott in their fight against this year's flu season.

"Currently, the immunization clinic has the influenza vaccine available for all eligible Department of Defense members and their dependents," Benhammou said.

The CDC recommends everyone over the age of 6 months get the flu vaccine. However, it is especially important that people who are at high risk of developing serious complications if they get sick with the flu be vaccinated. This includes people who have certain medical conditions including asthma, diabetes and chronic lung disease, according to the CDC website. People who live with, or care for others who are at high risk for developing those conditions, pregnant women and people 65 years and older should also get the vaccine.

Flu vaccines are available in the immunizations clinic, and its open 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays for walk-ins.

With the flu season hitting hard this year, some places are running out of vaccines.

"At this time, some vaccine providers may have exhausted their vaccine supplies, while others may have remaining supplies of vaccine," Benhammou said.

Civilians and family members seeking a vaccination can visit http://flushot.healthmap.org to find locations which still have the flu vaccine.

"Flu illness can vary from mild to severe," Benhammou said. "If you develop flu symptoms, contact your healthcare team. If severe symptoms develop, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, inability to keep fluids down, or confusion, care should be sought immediately by calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency."

For more information or questions regarding flu vaccine options, call 256-9355 or contact public health at 256-4986.