(WJAR) — We’re already seeing an uptick in our fall and winter seasonal illnesses — especially the flu.
And there are different strains which is why all flu vaccines this year are what’s known as trivalent–protecting against three different flu strains.
So who’s at highest risk for complications?
“Those 65 and older, those with chronic medical conditions like diabetes, chronic heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, other lung conditions, those who have asthma, and COPD are most at risk and also small children,” said Dr. Charelle Allen, a family primary care physician for Brown University Health in Taunton.
She said when it comes to flu vaccines, it’s not one size fits all.
Doctors are recommending vaccinations as seasonal viruses make an early appearance. (WJAR)
Among them–there are higher doses for those 65 and older, nasal sprays with a weakened live virus for healthy, non pregnant individuals between 2 and 49. Check with your doctor.
Symptoms to look for?
“For flu, it’s more so of an abrupt onset so you’ll have a high fever, you’ll feel joint pains, muscle aches, feel really ill,” said Allen.
COVID-19 may have similar symptoms. A test can help sort that out.
Then there’s respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. Its symptoms are somewhat similar.
“For RSV we’re looking for like the lower respiratory tract symptoms, such as wheezing, sputum production and cough with mucous,” said Allen.
Those 75 and older should be vaccinated, and those 50 to 74 with chronic conditions.
“And then pregnant women, typically offered between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation,” said Allen.
Or, it’s recommended that babies born between October and March to unvaccinated moms should get the shot within the first week of life.
Bottom line: “Any of these things can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, so if you are at increased risk, immunocompromised, it’s definitely recommended that you get vaccinated,” said Allen.