Influenza activity remains widespread in Marin County and regionally.
As of January 22, 2014, there have been 29 flu-related deaths reported in persons under aged 65 year in the ten-county Bay Area region, including two in Marin. Many of the deaths have occurred in persons who did not receive this year’s flu vaccine.
Laboratory testing of specimens has shown an overwhelming predominance of the H1N1 virus over H3N2, both of which are components of this year’s seasonal vaccine.
Since its emergence in 2009, the current strain of H1N1 has been shown to cause more severe disease in those with obesity, chronic cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, any immune deficiency, pregnant women, and in some cases, otherwise healthy young adults.
All isolates so far appear to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. For those in whom treatment is indicated, treatment should be started as early as possible in advance of laboratory confirmation. Currently, supplies of antivirals and flu vaccine are adequate in Marin County.
There have been no bed shortages in Marin hospitals.
The Marin County Department of Health and Human Services continues to recommend persons over six months of age should be considered for receiving the flu vaccine. The healthy adolescent through middle aged population should also be vaccinated, and this group may need special motivation from providers to be immunized.
For regular updates on Marin County influenza activity visit www.marinflu.org
For additional information
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/index.htm
http://www.cdph.ca.gov/healthinfo/discond/Pages/Influenza%28Flu%29.aspx
Remember, it’s not too late to vaccinate!