Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/80908
Fighting the Flu By Bess Donoghue How does the flu vaccine actually work? Each fall the cycle starts anew: A fresh flu vaccine is released by our nation's medi- cal experts, and local doctors begin to insist patients both young and old obtain a flu vaccination. So, why make the annual pilgrimage to your doctor's office? Be- cause each year the virus changes. "What the [vaccine] does every year is try to build immunization against what we think will be the prevalent strains around the world during flu season," says Huth. Once an individual receives the vaccine, the body is protected from that particular strain for a few years time. However, because the vi- rus mutates, the next flu season will most likely usher in the need for another annual vaccine. What are common myths about the flu vaccine? Whether you get the flu vaccine or not, know that two common myths surround- ing the vaccine are just that—myths. The first is what many experts believe one the main reasons people do not get the vac- cine: the fear that it could be harmful. Huth maintains the claims are false. "Es- sentially this is a way to provide immu- nity against any infection particle without actually getting the infection," he says. The second? That an annual vaccine like this is simply a profit motive for health care orga- nizations. Huth explains the vaccinations cost health providers money to offer and they do so because, quite simply, it's "good medicine." What other ways can we protect ourselves as flu season approaches? Whether receiving the flu vaccine shot or the flu mist (a nasal spray flu vaccine) take addi- tional precautions to keep yourself and your family healthy. Consider isolating yourself from anyone presenting flu symptoms, including a fever or coughing—and stay away from your office if you have the symptoms! Avoid sharing drinks, and make a habit of wiping down surfaces, especially your phone and computer key- boards. Finally, cover your cough, but not necessarily with your hands. As Huth explains, "If I cough into my hand, and then shake your hand, I'm not doing any favors. If we cough into our elbow, it's a lot less likely we are going to spread the virus." Each year the seasonal flu makes its way through schools and offices, sending even the best of us to the couch with symptoms. With new vaccines available each year, Dr. Mark Huth, a family medicine physician at Group Health Cooperative, offers a glimpse into the myths and the mysteries of how these vaccines work WE KNOW THAT IN WISCONSIN, EVERY DAY CAN FEEL LIKE A DIFFERENT SEASON. WE'RE HERE TO HELP. Meriter now offers allergy & immunology services to help those who are dealing with common conditions such as allergies, asthma, hay fever, hives, eczema and recurrent infections. The even better news is that we're available now. Isn't that the way it should be? To schedule an appointment with a Meriter allergist call 608.417.3300, or learn more by visiting meriter.com/allergy. ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY SERVICES • Dr. Jeremy Bufford & Dr. Katherine Gonzaga • Two locations: Meriter DeForest- Windsor & Deming Way • See patients of all ages Meriter is an innovative healthcare organization comprised of Meriter Hospital, Meriter Clinics and the physicians of Meriter Medical Group. Meriter accepts Physicians Plus as well as many other insurance companies. September 2012 bravamagazine.com 13