Hepatitis C - The Flu Season

 

Hello folks,
Here we are well into the flu season, and I know everyone treating or living with HCV has gotten their flu shot.

Huh? You haven't? Oh, in that case maybe you need a few simple facts about the flu and HCV to gently persuade you into getting vaccinated.

It's not too late.

The Flu

Flu-Shots 
Around this time every year, each of us needs to make a decision—should I get a flu shot? This decision is especially important to those living with diseases such as hepatitis C. Influenza, aka the “flu,” affects an average of 5% to 20% of the United States’ population. The flu is not just a bad cold – it is a potentially serious illness......
Continue reading another great article written by our favorite author, Lucinda K. Porter, RN

HCV Advocate Fact Sheet - Flu Shots
People living with chronic hepatitis C infection (HCV), cirrhosis, and those undergoing HCV treatment should ask their medical providers for an annual flu shot. Treatment may provide an excellent time to get a flu shot since interferon stimulates the immune response.
If you have complications from HCV, such as you are waiting for a liver transplant, your medical provider may recommend that you have an early flu shot....
Continue reading because you're worth it...

HCV, Influenza and You: Flu Shots Explained
Chronic hepatitis C can increase your risk of complications from the flu, but how effective is the flu vaccine during HCV therapy and should people on treatment be vaccinated?
Continue reading, you know you want to.....

Flu activity for the week of November 9th

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) weekly surveillance report, the flu activity remains low nationwide, although activity can be expected in the upcoming weeks.

Whew, that sure is good news for people who haven't yet received a flu shot. Call me if you need a babysitter while you step out to get vaccinated.

CDC Map

Stay updated, check out the CDC influenza activity map and see if influenza is in your area.

This Is Fun

Flu Forecast
A new tool that can predict when the flu will reach your area. Just enter your zip code and view your flu risk for the next three weeks.

What is the difference between the flu and a common cold?

The flu, if not taken care of, can lead to more serious health issues like pneumonia or bacterial infections, which are not commonly caused by colds, according to the CDC.



Symptoms of a cold include:

• Runny nose
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Sore throat

Symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Muscle aches
• Possible upset stomach and vomiting

People at High Risk of Developing Flu–Related Complications

Did I mention that some people with HCV are at a higher risk for developing complications from the flu? According to the CDC most people who get the flu are sick for a few weeks, and recover without seeking medical attention. But, influenza can worsen certain chronic health problems. People with chronic illness are more likely to get flu-related complications that result in being hospitalized and occasionally may be fatal. The CDC has included people with liver disorders as part of a group of individuals who are more likely to experience these complications.

*For a complete list of people who are at higher risk for flu complications, see People at High Risk from Flu.

If you get your flu shot now folks, you'll be protected before the holidays.

See you soon...........