"Flu activity usually peaks in January and February, but this season we are seeing flu activity earlier than usual," said Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, MD, MPH, in a release that includes the official line that "getting vaccinated now is important. Getting vaccinated against flu protects both the person who receives the vaccine and also reduces the chance they will become ill and spread the flu to family and friends."

What the L.A. County release doesn't mention is that that this year's flu vaccine appears to be less effective than in previous years (apparently because the current flu strain seems to have mutated.) [Mrs. LBREPORT.com came down with it a few days ago -- despite a flu shot, thank you -- and it's no joke. Of course this means the kidlets (despite flu shots) and Mr. LBREPORT.com (too busy to get vaccinated) will likely soon come down with it too.]

[Scroll down for further.]

The federal Centers for Disease Control says on its website: "Encourage your loved ones to get vaccinated. Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk for developing flu complications, and their close contacts. Also, if you have a loved one who is at high risk of flu complications and they develop flu symptoms, encourage them to get a medical evaluation for possible treatment with flu antiviral drugs. These drugs work best if given within 48 hours of when symptoms start. CDC recommends that people who are at high risk for serious flu complications and who get flu symptoms during flu season be treated with flu antiviral drugs as quickly as possible. People who are not at high risk for serious flu complications may also be treated with flu antiviral drugs, especially if treatment can begin within 48 hours." [Source: CDC FAQ at here

Sponsor

Sponsor

We add our unofficial, non-medical advice: wash your hands, get plenty of rest, don't run your immune system down...and good luck.

Sponsor

Sponsor

Sponsor

Sponsor