Flu Activity Is Elevated This Season — Protect Yourself to Help Protect Others
By Michael Brock, Public Affairs Specialist
According to recent reports from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in Southwest Florida outpatient visits for flu-like illness are higher than they have been in the past five seasons.
As flu activity rises across Florida and the nation, Bay Pines VA Healthcare System is encouraging Veterans to take steps now to protect their health.
“Older adults and people with long-term medical conditions are at higher risk of most flu complications for a variety of reasons,” said Bay Pines VA Chief of Medical Service Dr. Kaley Tash. “Some complications, like an increased risk of heart attack after the flu — especially severe flu — disproportionately affect older and sicker patients. Other complications can affect younger patients when the immune system’s response is overly aggressive. Nobody’s risk of severe influenza or complications is zero.”
Dr. Tash states that older Veterans — especially those who are living with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, or weakened immune systems — are at higher risk for serious flu complications. It is for this reason, that Bay Pines VA encourages Veterans who have not yet received their flu vaccine to speak with their primary care provider.
Some Veterans may worry about side effects or believe the influenza vaccination can cause the flu, but Dr. Tash stressed that this is a common misconception.
“The flu shot used at Bay Pines VA is not a live virus and cannot cause infection,” she said. “Many people don’t experience side effects at all. When they do occur, they are usually mild — such as a sore arm, body aches, or a low-grade fever — and typically go away within a few days.”
Flu shots are available during primary care visits, at hospital discharge, and in select clinics. Veterans who receive a flu shot or other medications in the community should notify their VA care team so their medical record can be updated.
In addition to vaccination, Veterans can take simple steps to reduce the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses, stated Dr. Tash. Handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and wearing a mask for added protection can all help protect Veterans, their families, and caregivers during flu season.
If you have questions about flu symptoms, vaccination, or your personal risk factors, your Bay Pines VA care team is ready to help. Taking action now can help protect your health and reduce the risk of serious illness this flu season.