It really IS an epidemic this time!

Yes, we have H1N1 shots in our office and Yes, I recommend them!
We have been inundated with people who have flu-like symptoms as well as people coming in for the vaccine. It really qualifies as an epidemic this time around. The local school board is posting the percentages of absenteeism for every school that has at least 10% of the kids out sick and there are no schools that are NOT on the list! One school was recorded twice with almost 20% of the students out sick.
One of my patients came in today with a red eye, body aches, fever, headache and generally feeling yucky and mentioned that at her elementary school (she is a kindergarten teacher) 10 teachers were out sick on the same day which resulted in general chaos as they tried to move the teachers and volunteers around to fill in the gaps.
One anecdotal observation: I haven't seen a single patient who has tested positive for Swine flu on culture who doesnt have a cough and a fever. Interesting since with regular flu you dont always have a cough. Body aches and sore throat are also extremely prevalent symptoms.

What to do? Well, first of all if you have any of these symptoms Stay Home! Spray your door knobs and counter tops with Lysol or the equivalent. Cough into your elbow and put hand sanitizer on your hands frequently. Get treated early.

We treat all our patients aggressively with homeopathic remedies, vitamins and supplements along with prescription anti-virals. Almost all are better within 3 days ............... except for that cough! If you start treatment late that cough can drag on for weeks. Inhale steam as much as possible and avoid cold drinks.

Prevention: Always the best option.
Get your Flu shots, both regular and the H1N1 (call the office if you need one). Stop by and pick up your "Well Being" and Vitamin C and Cod Liver Oil take them thru the winter, its going to be a rough one.
Stay out of crowds.

Warning:
Beware The Flu is usually worse after Thanksgiving ( after all the hugs and kisses). This year it started really early and with a vengeance, and if it is going to get worse after Thanksgiving we all need to be pro-active!