Community Corner

Flu Season Is Here — What You Should Know

Local Primary Care Doctor, Dr. Kwame Fiakpornoo, gets us ready for flu season.

By Dr. Kwame Fiakpornoo

Between the months of September and March each year, we are confronted with a public health dilemma. This is because accompanying the change in season is an increase in diseases of the respiratory tract, particularly "The Flu" amongst other respiratory viruses. Apart from the Flu being potentially fatal on its own especially in our older population and children, contracting the illness also predisposes one to significant complications that can arise; an example being Pneumonia caused by Staph. Now this is potentially fatal even in the healthy population.

The Bug: The Influenza Virus is ever changing. There are 2 main types A,B. It has an affinity for the linings of our airways. Various strains emerge yearly and vaccines are developed that match the anticipated changes the virus may go through for the next season.

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How Do We catch It: The virus usually lodges in our respiratory tract. Large amounts are transmitted when we cough or sneeze in large droplet particles.

The Myth: Influenza vaccinations does not cause "The Flu"! Word on the Street: "I was not sick till I got that vaccine!!' this sure makes folk nervous. Majority of the time, the most is a local reaction depending on the type of vaccine administered. The vaccine stimulates our immune system to mount a response similar to if we had the flu and it is the product of the reaction that protects us.

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The Vaccine: Various types are available for different populations; but generally are either injectables or nasal mist! Talk to your doctor regarding which is the best for you.

 Prevention: Protect your self!:Cover up when coughing, sneezing, wear a mask if  you are sick to protect others, get vaccinated, and if you have any symptoms, see your doctor; there are standard antivirals for the Flu. The recommendation is that every one gets the vaccine, however talk to your doctor first regarding the appropriateness as people with allergies to components of the vaccine or prior reactions may not receive it.

Symptoms to Expect: Fever; and many times you will be burning hot! Chills, Generalized Aches and Pains, Sore throat and Cough. There may be a history of being in contact with someone with similar symptoms.

Special populations: These are folk who are particularly susceptible to the virus or at increased risk of contact. The Young, The Elderly, Patients with Diabetes, COPD, Heart disease, Healthcare workers, but quite frankly everyone!!

Complications: As mentioned, these can be fatal. They include Viral and Bacterial Pneumonias, Inflammation and Breakdown of Muscle, Inflammation of the brain and other parts of the nervous system, Inflammation of the heart and overwhelming Staph infections.

My Take: The cost to you if you contract the Flu is enormous. First, the danger to your health, then time lost from work and play and the risk of exposing your loved ones is a huge burden. Get Vaccinated! Its safe and Affordable!

Editor's note: Dr. Kwame Fiakpornoo is a Board Certified Internist/ Primary Care Doctor and Medical Director of CobbWest Internal Medicine Associates located in Dallas GA. Visitwww.cobbwestim.com for more information.


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