Why This Year's Flu Season Could Be Worse Than Last Year's

Flu seasons can be difficult to predict, but there are already signs that the upcoming season may be especially tough.

Health experts who track outbreaks of the influenza virus around the world, a group of specialists organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) called the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) are reporting an increase in flu cases. In the southern hemisphere where the flu begins in May and ends in October, the flue season arrived early and struck hard. A particularly virulent flu strain, H3N2, has dominated. In the U.S., a 4 year old in California who had underlying health problems has died from the flu.

Each year, some strains of the influenza virus mutates, which is why a new flu vaccine is prepared every year. Significant mutations often cause pandemics because the immunity that we acquire over time from exposure and vaccinations becomes less effective. Because of mutations that can occur during the flu season, influenza vaccinations may not be as effective in many cases. However, it is still important to get vaccinated, especially for children and the elderly who are at greater risk of complications from the flu.

Protecting Your Family From the Flu

• Wash hands with soap and water or regularly use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Limit contact with surfaces like doorknobs, faucets, phones, and keyboards and wash hands afterward.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Stay at least six feet away from people who appear ill.
• Keep your immune system healthy by getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet.
• Last but not least, get vaccinated!