IMPORTANT INFLUENZA UPDATE - Red Lake Hospital

IMPORTANT INFLUENZA UPDATE

According to the most recent influenza surveillance data from CDC’s FluView, influenza activity in the U.S is beginning to increase and the 2nd pediatric death of the 2011-2012 season was just reported. While this is a late start to our flu season, in 15 of the last 30 years flu activity has peaked in February or March and continued into May, so we may have months of flu activity still ahead of us. As you all know, influenza vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza and its complications. This is particularly important for the American Indian/Alaska Native population as AI/AN people in previous years have experienced higher rates of influenza-related complications, including death, compared to other race and ethnic groups.

Remember, it is not too late to vaccinate!

We still have an opportunity to protect our families and our communities from influenza.

Susan V. Karol, MD, FACS

Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Health Service

Member Tuscarora Indian Nation

Captain, USPHS