Flu remains a serious health issue, official says

Vaccine is effective this season, but 35 have died in New Mexico so far

High time to get that flu shot, because New Mexico and the U.S. are in the thick of flu season.

Fortunately, the influenza vaccine this year is well matched to the flu strain causing most of the illness.

“It’s likely we still have several weeks (of flu season) left, and those who aren’t vaccinated could really do themselves a favor by getting vaccinated,” said Dr. Michael Landen, the state’s epidemiologist.

People ages 65 and older and children 5 and younger are at greatest risk of illness and death from influenza.

Flu is potentially deadly. The influenza virus makes the respiratory system highly vulnerable to bacterial infections that can cause pneumonia.

Flu and pneumonia had killed 35 New Mexicans through Feb. 18, according to the most recent data available. Last year, the state reported 85 flu and pneumonia deaths through Feb. 20.

Flu symptoms can include a cough, fever, muscle aches and fatigue. Other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, are more common among children.

People in high-risk groups who develop those symptoms can benefit from anti-viral treatments, which can help lessen discomfort and prevent dangerous complications, Landen said.

“For those with a higher risk of influenza complications, like older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, very young children and pregnant women, it’s important for them to visit their physician if they develop symptoms of influenza, because then they can get anti-viral medications,” he said.

The state has ample supplies of flu vaccine and anti-virals, he said. Flu shots are recommended

for anyone 6 months and older.

The most prevalent flu strain circulating this year is an H3N2 virus, which tends to cause the most severe illness among people 65 and older, and young children, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Randall Knott, a University of New Mexico pediatrician and a member of the New Mexico Immunization Coalition, said the effectiveness of the flu vaccine appears to have tamped down the severity of disease this year.

“We have definitely seen a pickup in flu cases,” Knott said. “But the number of children coming in with flu has not been dramatic. I’m just thrilled about that.”