by Kate Shunney
The appearance of influenza in the general population is expected in mid-December, with increased circulation at holiday gatherings that spread germs among people. That prediction has come true locally.
Public health officials confirm that’s what’s being seen now, with local residents reporting the spread of influenza cases in their work and family circles. Testing can confirm what particular strain of flu is causing illness in individuals.
According to emergency room data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington County saw the number of ER visits due to Influenza more than double during the week of Christmas, rising from 2.4% of all ER visits to 5.4% of all visits tied to flu.
According to the Maryland Department of Health, overall respiratory illness activity across the state is high now. Disease data can be found online at https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/Pages/Respiratory-Virus-Surveillance.aspx
Influenza illness causes symptoms of fatigue, fever, chills, body aches, headache and overall weakness. Children under the age of two, people older than 65, those with chronic health conditions like asthma or diabetes and those with other health challenges can be at higher risk for flu and may develop more serious complications if they get sick.
This year’s flu vaccine contains three strains – A(H1N1), A(H3N2) and a B/Victoria lineage virus, according the Centers for Disease Control. It appears that Flu A is most dominant in the region. 
“Seasons during which the influenza A(H3) cause the majority of influenza infections are typically characterized by more severe illnesses, particularly among older adults, resulting in more people seeking care,” said public health advisors.
The current flu shot does provide protection from severe symptoms brought on by influenza infection.
While many residents get those vaccines in late November to prepare for the upcoming respiratory illness season, the shots can still be taken at this point.
Based on previous years and disease projections, cases of respiratory illness will be heightened from now through March and April.
The public can protect themselves against the spread of respiratory illness by following the standard guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, which include these actions:
–Wash hands thoroughly and frequently and keep hands away from your nose, mouth and eyes when possible,
— Stay home when you are sick to prevent the spread of germs to those around you,
— Wear a mask when ill if you need to be among others,
— Avoid close contact with babies, older people and those with compromised immune systems if you suspect you are sick,
— Drink water, eat healthy foods, exercise and sleep sufficiently to boost natural immunity,
— Stay up to date on routine vaccinations to protect yourself and those around you from contagious diseases.
For more information about vaccinations, contact your primary health care provider or the Washington County Health Department at 240-313-3200.
