Health officials brace for return of flu season

With the last flu season largely hindered by widespread masking and social distancing, state and federal public health are now preparing for the return of seasonal influenza troubles, keeping an eye on a concerning strain of the virus called A (H3N2.)

“While influenza activity still is low overall nationally, an increase of influenza A (H3N2) viruses has been detected in recent weeks,” the CDC said in a Nov. 24 news release. “In the past, influenza A (H3N2) virus-predominant seasons were associated with more hospitalizations and deaths … A (H3N2) viruses evolve more rapidly to escape human immunity.”

Fortunately, there are a range of measures for the public to take, with vaccination being chief among them. The Iowa Department of Public Health backed the federal CDC’s flu shot recommendations for virtually everyone older than six months.

“Getting vaccinated for both influenza and COVID-19 can help preserve health care resources for other needs, including illnesses, injuries and emergencies,” said IDPH interim Director Kelly Garcia. “As we approach the holidays and winter months, I urge Iowans to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy by choosing to get vaccinated.”

The good news is that this season’s flu shot is more effective than those of years past. The CDC has published numerous studies confirming the effectiveness of a “quadrivalent” shot, which protects against four variants of the influenza virus, rather than the typical three, and can be administered at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine.

“For many years, flu vaccines were designed to protect against three different flu viruses: (two influenza A viruses) and one influenza B virus, even though there are two different lineages of B viruses that circulate during most seasons,” the CDC said in a statement. “Adding a B virus from the second lineage was done to give broader protection against circulating flu viruses.”

In addition to vaccination, the CDC urged Americans to be mindful of other precautions they can take in their day to day lives like avoiding close contact with those who have the flu, staying home when sick, covering mouths and noses when coughing and sneezing, and cleaning hands and frequently-touched surfaces.

The CDC gave specific suggestions to members of the workforce looking to keep themselves and others safe.

“Train others on how to do your job so they can cover for you in case you or a family member gets sick and you have to stay home,” a set of recommendations from the department said. “If you begin to feel sick while at work, go home as soon as possible.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com