Spread of the flu is on the rise

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a Public Health Emergency in New York on Saturday morning, over influenza. Already, 19,128 people have been sickened by the flu, statewide.

To put that number into perspective, there were just 4,400 reported flu cases in New York last year. Not even being halfway through flu season and 4 1/2 times last year's number of people have already gotten sick.

The Governor's announcement on Saturday is beneficial for many, especially for children.

Now, pharmacists can vaccinate children from six months to 18 years old; without the Executive Order, the only way children can get a shot is from his/her pediatrician.

Dr. Raghu Ram, Chief Medical Officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY says, "The emergency declaration by the Governor this morning actually allows the pharmacists to expand who they can immunize. And now, they can actually immunize children, in addition to adults. So the pharmacy, and your pharmacist, is a very good place to get an immunization, if you haven't had one yet."

This year's flu strain is more aggressive, and it started showing up earlier than normal.

Doctors recommend everybody get the flu vaccine, especially children, the elderly, and people with chronic health problems or otherwise weakened immune systems.

Even if you're an overall healthy person, says Dr. Ram, it's advisable for anyone with immediate family members who fit into the at-risk categories to get the flu shot.

"If you have a family member with a significant medical problem, you're protecting them. Even [if] they've been immunized, if you bring home the flu, they can get the flu from you."

It's just as safe and easy to get the flu shot at your neighborhood pharmacy as it is at your doctor's office, according to Dr. Ram.

Most health insurance plans cover the cost, and doctors recommend everyone get the vaccine.

"This year, I think they did do quite well in identifying which strains would be in our communities, and the vaccine has been about as effective as it is usually 60 to 70% effective," says Dr. Ram.

Even though people may still end up getting the flu, Dr. Ram says, it's worthwhile to be vaccinated. The doctor knows from experience -- he had the flu himself, a couple of weeks ago.

"If you didn't get the shot... I think I might have been laid up in bed for a much longer period of time," he points out. And you would have significantly more symptoms."

Symptoms of influenza include fever, chills, and body aches.

If you think you've been exposed to the virus but haven't gotten sick yet, talk to your doctor about treatments that may help you ward it off. Prophylactics are a common treatment option.

With or without the vaccine, you can take simple steps every day to protect yourself, according to Dr. Ram.

"General hygiene is a very important aspect of this. Washing your hands very carefully. Don't share food or drink with others. And if you are sick, stay home."