As the weather turns brisk and flu season begins, bad memories of last year’s H1N1pandemic may start surfacing. Luckily, microbiologist John Tudor, Ph.D., professor of biology at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, anticipates a less violent outbreak of the virus this year.

“There should be increased resistance to H1N1due to both natural immunity for those who were infected last year, and to artificial immunity for those who received the H1N1 vaccine. I also anticipate that more people will be vaccinated this year, which should reduce the infection rate even more,” Tudor says.

In terms of staying healthy throughout the colder months, Tudor cautions that stress may increase susceptibility to influenza. “High psychological stress levels have been associated with an expanded vulnerability to respiratory infections, and infected people who are stressed may also experience more severe symptoms,” he says.

Tudor adds that while all age groups are at risk, both the very young and very old are more likely to come down with the flu due to immune systems that have either not fully developed or have become diminished.

To better protect senior citizens, a new vaccine was developed in late 2009. “Fluzone High-Dose (HD) improves immune response to influenza in people over age 65,” Tudor says. The injection has four times the amount of antigens, but Tudor notes that adverse effects are the same as single strength Fluzone. Tudor adds that both vaccines protect against H1N1, H3N2 and a type B influenza virus.

While the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) changed its recommendations for flu vaccinations to include all age groups, Tudor does not see this as preparation for an especially rough flu season. He cites a “shift in the thinking of the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices away from recommending protection for the most vulnerable to protecting all groups of people whether they fall in the most vulnerable category or not.”

Tudor recommends several steadfast and true tips for staying healthy this season:

• Relax to reduce stress, but get vaccinated. This is the best way to protect yourself and those close to you from getting the flu.
• Wash your hands often, and try not to touch your eyes, mouth or nose, which are the entry areas for the virus.
• When you cough or sneeze, use a tissue if possible, otherwise cough or sneeze into your elbow/upper arm area.
• If you get sick, stay home to avoid spreading illness to others.

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Source:  Saint Joseph’s University