|
Take a shot against the flu, doctors say
September 30, 1997
Web posted at: 5:51 p.m. EDT (2151 GMT)ATLANTA (CNN) -- School is back in session, fall is in the air, and while you may not realize it, flu season is almost here.
Health officials say this flu season may be less severe than last year's, but that's no reason not to be prepared. Their advice: Take a pre-emptive strike and get a flu shot.
Some groups should not ignore that advice, health experts say. Those include: anyone over age 65; nursing home residents, no matter what age; people who suffer chronic heart and lung problems; those with weak immune systems; and health care workers.
Health experts estimate the flu kills as many as 20,000 people a year in the United States. Most of the victims are older patients. While flu vaccines are not 100 percent effective, they are currently the only line of defense available.
Vaccines protect against three viruses
Flu vaccines contain three virus strains, protecting you from three major viruses, said Dr. Keiji Fukuda of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.
"In people who are young and healthy, it's abut 70 to 90 percent effective in keeping you from getting sick," Fukuda said.
According to the CDC, flu shots are less effective in preventing the flu in older people, but can keep older patients from developing more severe illnesses, like pneumonia.
(238K/20 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)
And this year, doctors may have a tougher time fighting pneumonia, because almost half the bacteria that cause it are immune to penicillin and other commonly used antibiotics, according to a new study.
That's just one more reason to get a flu shot -- especially if you're at high risk.
Next year, an alternative to the flu shot may be available. Researchers are testing a new flu drug that is said to be effective in treating the illness and in preventing it. Studies show GS 4104 may be the first flu drug that can keep the illness from developing.
Gilead Sciences Inc. has already completed sets of human trials. The company has to do further studies on safety and effectiveness before it can apply for approval from the Food and Drug Administration. It is possible doctors could begin prescribing the drug during the next flu season.
Medical Correspondent Rhonda Rowland contributed to this report.
Related stories:
- New flu drug sounds too good to be true - September 24, 1997
- New flu drug may shorten aches and sniffles - September 24, 1997
- Scientists to test possible cure for the flu - January 28, 1997
- Flu season gets early, harsh start - December 16, 1996
Related sites:
Note: Pages will open in a new browser window
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Better Homes & Gardens Cold and Flu Guide
- Flu season special
External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.
|
Sound off on our message boards You said it... |
|
© 1997 Cable News Network, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.