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Short Summary
Main recommendation: Doctors say that even though this season's flu vaccine is only about 10 percent effective, it still makes sense to get vaccinated, since a small chance of protection is better than none. Utah's flu season has been mild so far, but doctors expect cases to rise as the holidays bring more family gatherings.
Key Points
- Utah has recorded 123 flu hospitalizations since October and no flu deaths, according to the Utah Department of Health report cited in the segment.
- Epidemiologist Greg Reed says this season has not seen a big increase in children missing school due to the flu, mirroring last season.
- Dr. Peric Estulin at Primary Children's Hospital says they are beginning to see a slight increase in flu-related illness in children.
- The most common strain this year is H3N2.
- Flu can hit quickly and is usually not subtle, and experts still anticipate a seasonal peak even though timing is unpredictable.
Details Worth Noting
- Concrete instructions:
- Get vaccinated against the flu, even with the low reported effectiveness.
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Wear a mask if needed to prevent the spread of flu.
- Talk to your doctor about antivirals if needed.
- Doctors describe this year's vaccine effectiveness as only 10 percent, yet still recommend vaccination.
- The segment ties the expected rise in cases to holiday gatherings with family.
- Flu cases are currently low, but the segment warns that conditions could change quickly.
Bottom Line
Utah's flu activity is currently low, but doctors warn that a spike is likely as the season progresses, so preventive steps still matter.
