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Flu cases on the rise, SE Mass bearing the brunt
By Staff reports
Wed Jan 16, 2008, 02:20 PM EST
In response to a recent Massachusetts Department of Public Health report detailing an increase in influenza cases in the first weeks of 2008, the North Attleborough Board of Health is urging unvaccinated individuals to visit their office for the flu vaccination.
According to the MDPH, the number of flu cases has increased in the state, with 143 cases being diagnosed between December 30 and January 5, the brunt occurring in southeastern Massachusetts.
"Similar to last year, there were almost no cases in October and November," said North Attleborough Town Nurse AnneMarie Fleming. "The difference from last year is that we are now seeing an upward trend of cases in January rather than in February and March."
But the flu season is by no means over and residents still face several months of dodging the virus.
"A concern that public health has is that because we have not had a bad flu season in years, people start to become complacent and aren't convinced of the need for vaccination," said Fleming.
Fleming, a registered nurse, stresses the need for people to get the shot, not only for their own health, but for the health of their families and communities.
"It is highly recommended and extremely important that anyone with a long-term medical condition or weakened immune system make sure they are protected from the flu," said Fleming. "If anyone visits or takes care of a high-risk person, they should make sure they get a shot so they don't bring it in the home."
Many people don't realize the extent of the influenza virus, considering it an easy ailment to overcome, but Fleming cites the complications not only for high-risk people: "Pneumonia is probably the biggest risk of getting the flu. It can also make life very difficult for families because it tends to go through the whole family."
For the month of January, the North Attleborough Board of Health will be opening their doors to all Massachusetts residents seeking the flu vaccination. Walk-ins will be welcome on Thursdays from 9 to 10 a.m., 1 to 2 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m., for quick and pain-free application.
Anyone who is under 18 must bring their parent or guardian.
"Many people think that if they haven't had a shot by now, that it's either too late, or that they are past the flu season and don't have to worry," said Fleming.
But the flu season is still not over yet, and as Fleming put it: "It's not too late to vaccinate."
For further information contact the AnneMarie Fleming and the Board of Health at 508-699-0194 or email Fleming at amfleming@north-attleboro.ma.us.
