Flu Outbreak Hits Hard

Since December of 2014, the number of flu cases across the United States has reached pandemic levels. According to epidemiologists, the 2014-2015 flu season has been the worst since 2009, when as many as 89 million people across the world were infected with H1N1. Actually, the most current strand (H3N2) is more difficult to treat than the H1N1, due to changes in structure. In fact, this year’s vaccine was found to be almost completely ineffective against H3N2.

Though 29 states have reported widespread flu activity, Tennessee makes up for over half of the illness related deaths(11 in total, 6 from Tennessee). Actually, with 442 patients last month at Children’s Hospital alone, Knoxville has been named the number one most affected city in the nation by the flu this year.

In fact, many local hospitals and clinics have been experiencing major spikes in outpatient care. At Halls Walk-In Medical Clinic, 6-7 infected patients are treated per day.

According to Rudy Hamm, a physician assistant at the clinic, the H3N2 strand is even much harsher than the original strands. He said,” Influenza is a virus... that attacks the respiratory system and can have some other symptomatology involved with other organ systems such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhea... although not typically. But this year we have been seeing some of that with it.”

The virus has taken effect on many businesses and organizations across the state. Many places selling pharmaceuticals have reported shortages of Tamiflu, a popular treatment for the flu, which may decrease your symptoms by half a day or more. Some East Tennessee schools have been even taking school-wide sick days. Alcoa City Schools closed December 12th in an attempt to reduce the spread of the virus.

Though cases did seem to peak in late December, many citizens are still recovering from the virus, and are still contagious. To keep from contracting H3N2, experts suggest you should consistently wash your hands, avoid touching the facial area and disinfect objects that may be contaminated.

-Reuben Burr