from the Upton Board of Health
Many of you may have heard that this year’s flu vaccine is not a good match for the flu viruses that are out there. Well, that is partially true. The most prominent flu virus circulating right now is the H3N2 Influenza A virus. The virus has changed just enough so that the flu vaccine that was made to fight it is not as effective as in years past. That being said, it still provides some protection and there are three other flu strains that are covered in this year’s vaccine that have not changed enough to be negatively affected. The other point to be made is that as the flu season gets going and peaks in February, the most prominent flu virus circulating can switch to a different A strain and later in the season a B strain. The bottom line is Influenza is a nasty illness that can be prevented or at least made less severe by getting a flu vaccine.
The Board of Health still has both flu mist and injections available from the public health nurse. Office hours for the nurse are MONDAY-THURSDAY 8:30am-1pm. The office is located in the newly refurbished town hall on the ground level Room 2. Please bring insurance cards and wear short sleeves if getting the injection.
Remember: Even protecting yourself with the flu vaccine is not enough. Wash your hands as well as high touch surfaces like door knobs and phones frequently, and please stay home from work or school if you have a fever over 100F and a cough or sore throat.
Make a healthy resolution for 2015. Protect you and yours with a flu vaccine! Call 508 529 3110 or email pparent@uptonma.gov
UPTON DAILY 