2018 Wellness Expo

Page 6 2018 Wellness Expo LINCOLN DAILY NEWS Wednesday, February 21, 2018 T his winter, Logan County Department of Public Health (LCDPH) has seen an elevated number of influenza (flu) cases reported, which coincides with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) findings throughout the U.S. this season. The CDC reminds the public that the flu season is currently at its peak through February and will typically last through May. Further data also confirms that the predominant flu strain people are infected with is type A, H3N2, which is associated with more severe symptoms and a higher mortality rate, especially in young children and seniors. While the current flu vaccine may not guarantee a person full protection from this strain, the vaccine can significantly reduce the chances of severe symptoms and one’s ability to pass the virus to other individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 25,000 people in the United States die each year from influenza, and 966,000 medical visits and 67,000 hospitalizations were prevented last year by the vaccine. Protect yourself from influenza CONTINUED →