Flu Season Begins in Nova Scotia

Fever, aches and pains, sneezing, coughing -- if this sounds like you, it could be the flu. The first lab-confirmed cases of influenza in the province have been identified in Halifax, Truro and Kentville.

Flu season usually begins in January or February in Nova Scotia and lasts between four and six weeks. The most effective way to protect yourself from the flu is by getting a flu vaccine. Although the vaccination campaign encouraged Nova Scotians to get the flu shot in the fall, it's not too late, particularly if you are in one of the high-risk groups.

"The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent serious influenza-related complications among seniors and other people at risk because of chronic disease," said Dr. Robert Strang, medical officer of health in charge of the province's flu campaign. "Even though we have flu in the province, it is not too late for high- risk individuals to get their vaccines."

Many people mistake the flu for other respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses. Flu symptoms often include a sudden high fever, headache, general aches and pains, fatigue and weakness, a runny, stuffy nose, sneezing and sore throat. It also often includes chest discomfort and coughing and can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Diarrhea and vomiting are not symptoms of the flu, but are more likely the result of a gastrointestinal illness or another virus.

Although many people don't consider the flu a serious illness, it is estimated that between 300 and 400 people die each year in Nova Scotia because of complications from influenza. In addition, every year in Nova Scotia about 20,000 visits to doctors and more than 2,500 hospitalizations are the result of complications from influenza.

High-risk groups include people 65 years of age and older, adults and children who suffer from chronic heart and lung problems and other chronic diseases, people who live with or care for high- risk individuals and health-care workers. All of these individuals are eligible for a free flu shot, and can still get one by contacting their family physician.

Frequent hand washing is also very important for flu prevention.