Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Influenza Update

There were four new outbreaks of influenza in the week ending March 19, compared with nine the previous week. There has been one pediatric influenza-associated death reported from York in a vaccinated child. Flu continues to be widespread in Maine.

Vaccination is still recommended for those who have not been vaccinated this season. One flu vaccine is protective for the entire flu season, and a second dose is not recommended for adults, even if they were vaccinated early in the fall.

Two doses of flu vaccine are only recommended for young children who have never been vaccinated before. Children younger than 9 who have never had a seasonal flu vaccine should receive two doses, spaced at least 4 weeks apart.

Weekly updates on flu activity are available