Mississippi is in the midst of the most severe Flu season in recent years. New cases were on a downward trajectory until the middle of December, but doctors say holiday gatherings are causing more infections. Cases have already reached two peaks in late October and November, and Dr. Bhagyashri Navalkele with the University of Mississippi Medical Center says more cases are likely in the coming weeks.
“Any time during the flu season it is recommended to get vaccinated. Everyone who is aged 6 months and older who are eligible to receive vaccination should get vaccinated,” says Dr. Navalkele.
Despite current transmission levels, doctors say it is not too late to get a vaccine to protect against the various strains of flu that are circulating. And because there is more than one predominant strain, doctors say a prior infection may not offer any natural immunity. Dr. Leah Rock with the Hattiesburg Clinic says there is also a version of the flu vaccine that doesn’t require a needle.
“Nasal spray vaccines protect against four strains, two strains of Flu A and two strains of Flu B. It’s approved for use in healthy, non-pregnant individuals aged 2 years old to 49 years old,” says Dr. Rock. She says the virus uses a live strain, which can cause complications for those outside of the approved group.
Vaccines are available at many pharmacies, county health departments and physicians' offices across the state.
