3 lies and 3 truths about this year’s awful flu season
The Story
Take it seriously this year: The flu is hitting NC harder than it has in the last 5 years.
The Lies
The flu shot doesn’t work. While it’s true this year’s vaccine doesn’t match the circulating influenza strain, it can still protect you — both from this strain and other strains that could pop up. And if you get the flu, the shot could soften its blow.
It’s too late to get the flu shot: Nope. While it’s hit early this year, the flu season could cycle through another rough spot in February or March. And no, the vaccine doesn’t make you get the flu. But it does hurt a little.
Roll up your sleeves, Charlotte! #FluSeason http://t.co/6HJZJ3Uvw4 pic.twitter.com/qPp0MvYinb
— Angie’s List CLT (@AngiesListCLT) October 7, 2014
I’m too young to get the flu: NC officials report that the highest spike in those getting the flu have been the elderly — and ages 25-49.
If this is the flu…kill me now. — Audra Goforth (@audragoforth) January 4, 2015
The Truths
Get some Tamiflu: Used to be docs guarded this stuff for the most sick. Now, if you’re showing severe symptoms, call and ask for a prescription. It won’t cure you, but it could shorten how long you’re sick. Note: Such antivirals are only effective if taken within two days of the onset of symptoms.
It’s official! Kimmie has the flu! Got my Tamiflu and ready to start feeling better!
— Kim Walker (@paynes_mom) December 31, 2014
Skip visiting your friend’s new baby: Hospitals have limited who can visit these days. At CMC hospitals, nobody under age 18 will be admitted. And if you have a cold, you’ll need to wear a mask to visit the Levine’s Children’s Hospital. Novant is limiting visitors in its neonatal intensive care units at Presbyterian, Matthews and Huntersville hospitals.
This is early for flu season: Normally you see the spikes in January or February. But for three years now, it’s becoming quite the Christmas treat.
9 people die of flu in NC during Christmas week: State health officials say nine people died of complications from… http://t.co/68mqHBTmiX
— Charlotte CP (@CharlotteCP) January 3, 2015
C5’s Take
Do us a favor: If you feel feverish, fatigued, achy, etc., stay home. This thing is for real, and you don’t want to be the tool who gets your whole office sick, right?
Photo: Rogelio V. Solis / AP
This story was originally published January 6, 2015 at 1:08 AM with the headline "3 lies and 3 truths about this year’s awful flu season."