Public health officials are urging everyone to get their flu shots this year, but they admit that the H3N2 virus has mutated. That means the vaccine will offer significantly less protection against the forms of influenza in wide circulation this season.
Guessing in Advance
Every year, epidemiologists have to guess months in advance which strains will be circulating so the vaccinations can be prepared. But viruses don’t always cooperate, and this year the H3N2 strain that now dominates is not a good match for the strain included in the shot.
Antiviral Prescriptions
The CDC is now encouraging doctors to prescribe antiviral drugs like Tamiflu and Relenza when people come down with influenza. These drugs work best, however, when taken within the first day or two of symptoms, so it makes sense to get in touch with the primary care provider as soon as symptoms start.
