Winter will be here before we know it, and with the changing weather comes seasonal influenza (flu).  Each year in the United States, the seasonal flu leads to a quarter of a million hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) both strongly encourage the public to get the flu vaccine every year. 

On June 11, 2009, the WHO declared that a global pandemic of the H1N1 virus was under way.  While this flu has been moderate in its severity and hasn’t gotten a lot of press as of late, it is expected to reappear this winter with greater severity.  The annual flu vaccine does not protect against the H1N1 flu, but a H1N1 flu vaccine is expected to be available in the late fall or early winter.

It is rare that we see a situation where there will be two types of flu going around this upcoming flu season.  When one considers that the seasonal flu has a tendency to affect the elderly and others with weak immune systems, and the H1N1 flu has tended to affect younger and healthier people (although most deaths have occurred in those with pre-existing conditions), this flu season could be more disabling on our communities and workplaces than we’ve seen in recent flu seasons.  It will be important for all of us to remain well-informed and protected.

EGA strongly urges people to get a seasonal flu shot this year, and to stay tuned for the possible availability of the H1N1 flu vaccine.  We’ll pass along information as more is known about the H1N1 vaccine and its availability.  

EGA will continue to keep you updated on this situation at its website, http://www.ega-inc.com.  As experts in pandemic flu preparedness, EGA can assist you with any questions you have about preparing your organization for a pandemic.