Flu Strikes New England Earlier Than Usual
CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire health officials say three adults in three different counties have tested positive for the influenza virus.
The Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging all residents above the age of 6 months to get vaccinated against the flu as soon as possible.
Officials say it's the fourth year in a row that they've had to make the flu shot announcement in September — earlier than anticipated. The flu season typically runs from October through May.
The three confirmed cases involve adults in Carroll, Grafton and Hillsborough counties.
Health officials say the vaccine is available in shot form for those ages 6 months and older. A nasal mist form is available for those between the ages of 2 and 49 who are healthy and not pregnant.
"Every flu season is different and flu is very unpredictable," said Marcella Bobinsky, acting director of Public Health at DHHS. "It is important every year to receive the flu vaccine because it is the best defense against the flu, and the vaccine's protection does not last from season to season."
Flu can be serious — affecting the lungs, nose and throat. Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat and muscle aches.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 25,000 people die each year due to influenza. New Hampshire last year had 49 confirmed cases of influenza-related deaths.
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