The Flu Isn’t Gone Yet

This year has been a pretty bad one for the flu. Not only did a lot of people get the flu (even some who were vaccinated against it), but the dominant strain – Influenza A-H3N2 – was a strong one and widespread. So instead of groups of people in different regions coming down with the flu at different times, the whole country seemed to get sick together. At least flu season is over, right?

As it turns out, that’s not quite the case.

The Weather Channel reported at the end of March 2018, that the flu is still causing deaths and serious illness throughout the United States. The report noted that:

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), getting the flu, especially influenza B, is still a distinct possibility.
• The CDC recommends that doctors still give flu shots to their patients.
• The total number of infant deaths caused by flu through March 24th was 137.
• 17 states reported a large number of flu cases.

Influenza B, according to a CDC representative, is just as deadly as other virus strains. For children, influenza B tends to be especially severe. If left undiagnosed and untreated, the flu can easily develop into bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, or pneumonia – the last of which can be deadly.

Overall, the CDC noted that nearly a quarter of a million people have tested positive for a flu strain this season. Nearly 27,000 people have been hospitalized.

Protect yourself from the next round of the flu

The CDC has a “Take 3” action list to help you protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu:

1. Get vaccinated, if you haven’t already.
2. Do what you can to avoid spreading germs. If you’re sick, stay home. If your friends are sick, tell them to stay home. Disinfect any shared spaces, like your desk at work and your cell phone.
3. If you’re prescribed antiviral drugs for the flu, take them all and avoid doing anything that might counteract the medication.

To this list of three, we’d like to add one more: if you have a child and that child exhibits any signs of the flu (coughing, lethargy, aches and pains, runny noses, fever), please don’t hesitate to take him or her to the doctor. This year’s flu strain has been particularly deadly for the elderly, the immuno-compromised, and for kids. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

At Bailey & Greer, PLLC, we want you to be safe, happy, and healthy. If you or your loved one was misdiagnosed, or if your treatment was delayed, you may have a claim for medical malpractice. Please call  901-680-9777 or t complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a medical malpractice attorney in Memphis or Jackson.