|
|
Sixsmith told the audience she is an optimist. “If we have a recurrence of the swine flu, it will be similar to last spring and there is really not much to worry about,” she said.
She advises most people who become sick to not visit hospital emergency rooms or doctors’ offices. “By not going, it will help with containment,” Sixsmith said.
Only people with breathing problems and serious complications are urged to seek medical care.
Dr. James Rahal, director of the infectious disease section, also comforted community members by telling them: “Most studies show this is not a terribly serious virus.” He explained that the vaccine mimics the virus and forces the immune system to make antibodies against it. “It protects us from attack,” Rahal said.
Dr. Stephen Rimar, chief medical officer at NYHQ, said officials are anticipating a bad flu season, which could last until spring. His hospital is preparing alternate locations should a large number of people become sick. For more information, call the NYHQ hotline at (718) 670-2121.
Dr. Teeb Al-Samarrai, epidemic intelligence service officer at the city Department of Health, was also encouraging. “The virus hasn’t changed yet,” she said. “It is not likely to cause severe illness,” noting that it hasn’t mutated into a more deadly form.
The DOH estimates that up to 1 million New Yorkers contracted the virus last spring, but the case numbers are very low now.
Al-Samarrai pointed out the DOH has updated its flu website, nyc.gov/flu so residents can find information on where to get seasonal flu shots now. The swine flu vaccine is expected soon.
There will also be data on the number of cases at city schools. But Mayor Mike Bloomberg said that only under the most serious cases will schools be closed.
Last month, the mayor announced that the city would provide free swine flu shots for all school children — both public and private — with elementary students getting the shots in school. Older students will have to go to community flu centers on weekends. Parents must first sign a consent form.
Although the first immunization will be available in early October, it will only be in spray form, called FluMist. The spray, however will not protect those most vulnerable such as pregnant women, children under age 2, and people suffering from asthma and other respiratory diseases.
Adults with underlying health conditions are among those most in need of immunization. Studies show children and young adults seem to be more susceptible to the swine flu than the regular seasonal flu. Because it’s a new strain, few people have built up an immunity, making it spread quickly, especially in schools.
The initial outbreak in the United States occurred at St. Francis Prep in Fresh Meadows in April, after several students returned from a spring break trip to Mexico, where the flu originated.
During the question-and-answer period last week, Rahal dismissed the use of face masks outdoors and taking Vitamin C to avoid catching the flu. He noted the virus gets transmitted through coughs and nasal discharges within three feet, which are quickly dissipated in the cold air. As to Vitamin C, “There is no good evidence it works,” the doctor said.
