Flu Season Has Not Yet Peaked; Still Time to Get Vaccination

— from Shila R Wachtel, RN, BSN for Orcas Family Health Center —

We, in our clinic have seen a number of patients with influenza, i.e. “the flu” over the last two months. This includes symptoms of:

• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than in adults, although can accompany all other symptoms

Health Officer of San Juan County, Dr. Frank James reported on January 11, 2018: “While flu cases are on the rise in San Juan County, we are not currently seeing the levels reported in the sate and region. However, we can reasonably expect our county to begin seeing an increase in flu cases now that the flu is active in the region… The influenza vaccine this year appears to be significantly less effective, especially against the most common circulating virus; however vaccination is still one important way to protect against infection—especially for those with elevated risk of complications, hospitalization, and death.”

We believe at Orcas Family Health Center that all should be vaccinated for influenza to protect you and your loved ones as well as others in our community. And, it is not too late to get vaccinated.

The state of Washington and San Juan County have seen a number of influenza cases; however the illness has not peaked in our region or state. So, this means it is still a good time to get vaccinated against influenza. Some places within Washington state and our county do not have the influenza vaccine available as they have exhausted their limited supply. We at Orcas Family Health Center have the flu vaccine available for those 4+ years – 65 years and also have a limited supply of high-dose flu vaccinations available for those with qualifying illnesses (those people will need to schedule a provider visit to determine necessity).

Please call Orcas Family Health Center at 360-376-7778 if you are interested or want to learn more about the influenza vaccination for you or your family.