Influenza Vaccine Alert

Utah Valley Pediatrics has seen many flu cases in recent weeks. Influenza is spreading throughout the United States and many cases are caused by a strain of the disease that is not directly covered by this year’s flu vaccine. During the last two years flu mortality in adults has been higher than in the past but deaths in children, usually caused by severe strains, have been rare.

Experts develop the flu vaccine eight months before it begins to circulate in the fall. “Most years, the prediction is very good,” said Joseph Bresee, an influenza epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “In 16 of the last 19 years we have had a well-matched vaccine.” This winter the vaccine is probably not a good match.

The viruses are constantly mutating. When one appears that is different enough from the old strain, even a person protected by vaccination or previous infection can become victim of the new strain.

That doesn’t mean that vaccines provide no benefit. CDC officials say vaccination even now may be of some benefit. Antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and sometimes prevent infections and are especially useful people at high risk for complications due to other illnesses. To reduce the risk of spreading infections the CDC says to cover your coughs, wash your hands often and stay home if you are sick.

References: Brown, David. February 10, 2008. “Flu Spreads Despite Vaccines,” The Washington Post.

Article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/09/AR2008020902324.html

Additional information: http://www.kidshealth.org/research/flu_2008.html