Medical officials are already asking local residents to roll up their sleeves in preparation for flu season.
“While flu spreads every year, the timing, severity and length of the season varies from one year to another,” said Gail Bagazzoli, vice president of quality of the Upper Allegheny Health System, which includes Bradford Regional Medical Center and Olean (N.Y.) General Hospital. “The timing of flu is very unpredictable and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season.”
Seasonal flu viruses can be detected year-round, though activity typically begins as early as October and November and can run as late as May, Bagazzoli said. Peak times for the flu in the area is December and February, she said.
“The best time to get a vaccine is before the end of October and definitely before influenza cases rise in the community,” said Eunice Asomaning, a primary care physician at Cole Memorial Hospital of Coudersport. “However, vaccinations are offered through late winter and early spring, as long as the flu is still circulating.”
Asomaning said the flu vaccine is recommended for those 6 months and above; individuals at increased risk of severe complications from the flu, including children under 5 years old and adults over 50 years old; as well as pregnant women.
In addition, individuals with a weakened immune system and people with certain chronic medical conditions that impact the lungs, heart, brain, kidneys, liver, bone marrow and other body systems should get the vaccine, she said.
“It is highly recommended that these high-risk groups obtain a flu vaccination each year,” Asomaning said, adding that individuals known to have an egg allergy should consult their medical provider.
Thus far, Bradford Regional has not reported any positive flu tests, Bagazzoli said. In two weeks, the hospital will start the patient and employee flu vaccination program.
Asomaning said that an estimated five to 20 percent of Pennsylvania residents fall victim to Influenza a year, while 120 to 2,000 die from complications of influenza.
“Most people get the flu with mild cases and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs,” Bagazzoli said. “If you get sick, stay home and avoid contact with other people. Take plenty of liquids, take showers, wash your hands frequently and rest.”
The flu can also be prevented by the washing of hands, Bagazzoli said.
Cole Memorial Medical Group will host walk-in clinics on Friday at Northern Potter Health Center (Ulysses), 7 a.m. to noon; Oct. 6 at the Port Allegany Health Center, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Bowman Health Center (Smethport), 8 a.m. to noon; Emporium Health Center, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m.; Shinglehouse Health Center, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Central Potter Health Center (Coudersport), 8 a.m. to noon; Westfield Health Center, 8:30 a.m. to noon; N. Potter Health Center (Ulysses), 7 a.m.to noon; Oct. 11 at Eldred Health Center 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and Nov. 3 at the Northern Potter Health Center (Ulysses), 7 a.m.to noon.
