Influenza activity peaks early

This year we have had an early start to the flu season and influenza cases in Nebraska and Iowa have peaked earlier than usual.

“Influenza is alive and well in Omaha,” said Shelly Schwedhelm, director of Emergency, Trauma and Disaster Services at UNMC’s hospital partner, The Nebraska Medical Center.

Employees can still get free flu shots at Employee Health.

“The flu is predictably unpredictable,” said Mark Rupp, M.D., professor of infectious diseases. “We know every year we’re going to get a flu epidemic, we just don’t know when it’s going to occur or how severe it’s going to be.

“This year’s epidemic occurred earlier than it has in the past and more people have been involved this year than in previous years.”

According to Dr. Rupp, there are two strains circulating in the community: Type A and Type B. Fortunately, both of those strains are well represented in this year’s flu vaccine. So people who received the flu vaccine should be pretty-well protected.

There’s no indication that the currently circulating strains are any more virulent or dangerous than what we’ve seen in the recent past. As more people are vaccinated, officials expect more of a protective effect over time.

How can I avoid getting the flu?

“The biggest thing is to prevent an exposure before it can happen,” Schwedhelm said. “Remember to use precautions in all settings when someone with ILI-type symptoms is present. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and washing your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub. ”

If you have not yet been vaccinated this year against influenza, consider doing so now, Schwedhelm said.

Employees can get free vaccinations at employee health.

What if I have the flu?

If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities. You may also consider influenza antiviral medications, regardless of whether or not you were vaccinated.

“It comes down to a basic concept,” said Jill Petersen, manager of employee health. “Well-workers belong at work and sick ones should stay home.

“It’s really in the best interest of everyone.”