By Cheril Lee
Omaha, NE – The Douglas County Health Department recently confirmed the first case of Influenza A of the season.
Resource Specialist Phil Rooney says the patient was an adult male who has since recovered. He says the Centers for Disease Control recommends flu vaccines for everyone, especially pregnant women. Rooney says clinics and stores in Douglas County offering the 2010-2011 seasonal flu vaccine have enough doses for everyone who wants to get the vaccination. Those who receive the vaccine are protected against three strains of the flu, including the strain of H1N1 responsible for last year's pandemic.
Other ways to prevent the spread of the flu include washing your hands regularly, covering your cough and staying home when you are sick.
Because it takes up to two weeks for the flu vaccination to provide any immunity, the Health Department recommends getting a flu shot as soon as possible.