TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- During this time of year, it isn’t unusual for people to say they think they have the flu, but the Medical Director of the Pediatric Clinic Dr. (Capt.) Jefferie Wilson, 72nd Medical Operations Squadron, wants Team Tinker to know many respiratory viruses can mimic the actual flu.
“These respiratory viruses cause similar symptoms as the flu, but in fact they are not the flu virus,” Wilson said. “The flu is caused by a specific virus, influenza. The classic symptoms of influenza infection are: sudden onset of fever 101 degrees or higher, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, runny nose and headache.”
He said the one distinguishing characteristic is the severity of the disease.
“When you truly have the flu, you are ‘down and out’ and it may take days to weeks to recover normal energy levels,” Wilson said. “The good news is that influenza is one of the few viral illnesses for which we have a vaccine.
“The influenza virus can change from year to year and the annual vaccination is needed. The flu vaccine does protect you from the illness. Some years the vaccine is more effective than others, but this should not stop you from getting the flu vaccine.”
He said getting vaccinated annually has been proven to greatly reduce the rate of hospitalizations, complications, morbidity and mortality from the flu.
“Everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine because influenza infections are common, are spread easily and can lead to other infections,” Wilson said. “Children and adults with chronic health problems should especially get the vaccine. Flu season is here and with the usual peak of the season occurring in the upcoming months it is important for everyone to get out and get the flu shot.”
The Immunizations Clinic at the 72nd Medical Group can provide active duty, retirees, dependents and civil service employees with their annual influenza vaccine.
For more information on the vaccine, call 582-6521.