As flu activity starts to climb in San Diego County, public health officials are rolling up their sleeves for what may be a robust season, with last week witnessing a surge to 116 recorded cases over the prior week's 77. According to data up through late October from County News Center, the cumulative count this year stands at 1,209, notably higher compared to the 733 cases reported at the same point in the previous season, wastewater testing has been indicating upticks in flu virus detection.
With holiday festivities on the horizon, Dr. Ankita Kadakia, interim County public health officer, emphasizes the criticality of vaccination, "We are going to have a busy flu season. With holiday gatherings approaching it is especially important to be vigilant by covering your cough, washing your hands and getting vaccinated against the flu," Kadakia stated to County News Center, cautioning against attending gatherings when feeling unwell to curb the spread of the flu this season.
Amidst this uptick, perennial myths around the flu vaccine persist. Contrary to one common conundrum, the flu is not to be dismissed lightly—prevailing statistics from the last flu season paint a stark picture, with 20,000 affected, 1,500 hospitalizations, and 60 fatalities in San Diego alone, including two infants. Public health narratives stress the importance of the flu shot, particularly for the vulnerable, such as young children and older adults. Another myth-buster offered is the assurance that flu shots are formulated with inactive or dead viruses, refuting the misconception that they can cause the flu itself—though mild side effects are possible, they pale compared to flu complications.
Furthermore, doubters of vaccine efficacy should note, as Kadakia pointed out, "Scientists spend a lot of time predicting which flu strains should go into the vaccine each year," as per the County News Center, it's possible for mutations to render the vaccine less effective against certain strains. However, the majority of circulating viruses are usually covered by it. Having a flu shot still lessens the severity of the disease, even if it isn't completely preventive. Those interested in more detailed statistics and preventive measures should refer to the Respiratory Viruses Surveillance report published by the County Health and Human Services Agency.
Health officials like the CDC recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and above, with a provision that it's safe to co-administer it with COVID-19 shots. Access to the flu vaccine is widespread, being available at doctors' offices, retail pharmacies, and, for those without medical insurance, at county health centers and community clinics. Basic health measures to ward off the flu remain key: frequent handwashing, use of sanitizers, avoiding contact with the sick, and staying home if unwell to keep the community healthy as the season progresses.
