Wednesday, December 2, 2009

CDC FluView: H1N1 Activity



Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:





via Commonwealth Conversations: Public Health by Julia Hurley on 12/1/09


Every week the CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes key findings in a report called FluView. There has been significant media coverage of the report released yesterday covering flu activity for November 15-21 citing a decrease in H1N1 activity. It is important to realize, however, that while activity has decreased in some key indicators it has also increased in others. For example, the report states that thirty-two states are still reporting widespread influenza activity at this time, including Massachusetts. 

While some of these numbers make it seem that the H1N1 flu season has peaked, it is simply too soon to know if it is actually on the decline in Massachusetts. Every flu pandemic is unique so only time will tell if these downturns will continue. In the meantime, it is more important than ever that everyone continue to practice good health hygiene to help prevent getting or spreading any type of flu. Be sure to cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hand, and wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after you cough or sneeze. Finally, be sure to get both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine as soon as they are available to you. 

You can read the full FluView every week on the CDC's website at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/




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