— from Frank James MD, San Juan County Health Officer —

Influenza appears to be a few weeks ahead of the usual schedule. The predominance of the 2009 H1N1 strain increases the risk of serious infections that lead to hospitalization and even death in middle aged persons not just elders and the very young. It is never too late to vaccinate! Treat early in high risk individuals.

  • The disease if now considered Widespread in WA, OR and Idaho and 35 other states
  • Canada reported the first case in the Americas of avian influenza (H5 N1) however the risk of further spread is very low
  • Also FDA reported a shortage of oral suspension of Tamiflu, this it expected to be short lived and the oral suspension can be formulated using the 75 mg Tamiflu capsules if needed.
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