Influenza Virus Hits Washtenaw County, Health Officials Report

Washtenaw County Public Health Department officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against the influenza virus following confirmation that the virus infected an Ypsilanti man earlier this week.

The case is among the first in the state, and has arrived earlier than usual. According to health officials, initial cases are more typically confirmed in late November or early December.

“Flu can be unpleasant at best and serious or fatal at worst. Annual vaccination provides optimal protection, especially for persons at risk of severe complications including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions like asthma, heart failure or diabetes,” Dr. Monique Reeves, medical director for Washtenaw County said. “It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop a protective immune response so it is important to get vaccinated as early in the season as possible."

Reeves said this year there is an ample supply of vaccine and several places in the county that offer vaccinations, including medical providers, the health department and various local pharmacies.

Reeves said an annual flu vaccination and basic prevention strategies like hand washing provide the best protection against illness. Vaccinations are recommended for everyone six months and older.

Washtenaw County Public Health will hold a walk-in flu vaccination clinic from 9-11 a.m. Oct. 19. Additionally, appointments for vaccinations may be scheduled by calling 734-544-6700. The cost for the vaccine is $20. Medicaid and Medicare Part B are accepted. Photo identification and proof of insurance will be required. Receipts can be provided for anyone requiring documentation for insurance purposes.

Another resource for residents is Google flu vaccine finder, which identifies other locations in the county where flu vaccines are being offered.

"Although most people who get the flu will recover uneventfully from a mild to moderate illness that does not require medical care, some people will develop complications that result in hospitalization, and occasionally, in death," Reeves said.

She said flu seasons are unpredictable and can be severe.

"Compared with other infections like the common cold, influenza is more likely to cause severe illness and life-threatening complications in many people," she said. "Studies going back 30 years show that seasonal flu-related deaths have ranged from about 3,000 people to 49,000 people annually in the United States."

The Michigan Department of Community Health offers these helpful tips to avoid the flu:

• Wash hands frequently, especially after coughing, sneezing and handling used tissues.
• Avoid close contact with those who have colds or flu-like symptoms. Stay away from others if you are sick. 
• After contact with a person who is ill, wash your hands and keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Boost your immune system by eating a healthy diet and getting regular physical activity and plenty of rest.

For more information visit http://publichealth.ewashtenaw.org, or call 734-544-6700.