Garrett County Health Department Has Flu Vaccine: It’s Not Too Late

That nasty “wintertime” illness, influenza, is increasing in geographic spread across the United States.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just released a report saying an estimated 6 million Americans have been sickened by flu so far this season.  Flu can cause a sore throat, fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue and can deteriorate into pneumonia and respiratory distress.

The number of states reporting widespread activity has increased from 24 to 30 for the last reporting week ending on January 5.  The CDC reports the number of people visiting their health care providers for influenza-like symptoms is above the national baseline and at least 16 influenza-related pediatric deaths are reported so far this season.

“In Maryland, we see increased reports of flu activity and Garrett County is not being spared,” says Cindy Mankamyer, RN, communicable disease nurse at the health department.  “Flu season is not over, and it is not too late to get vaccinated. A flu vaccine can prevent infections and reduce the severity of complications from flu.”

“We expect to see more flu cases here, and we sure do not want to see a repeat of last season where the number of flu cases across the country was one of the highest in recent history,” said Mankamyer. “Little ones can be especially affected by flu: tragically the flu killed 185 children last year around the country, including some in Maryland.”

CDC recommends that babies get their flu vaccine beginning at 6-months, and vaccine is especially important for people with health disorders such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, or any condition that weakens one’s immune system.  

The health department still has a good supply of flu vaccine for all ages, including pediatric formulations and a high dose version recommended for those aged 65 years and older. Also available is Flu Mist®, the nasal spray flu vaccine for healthy persons aged 2 to 49 years. For more information, call 301 337-7770 or toll-free from the Grantsville area at 301 895-3111.

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department