Flu cases are on the rise, and health officials are sounding the alarm. But here's where it gets controversial: while the CDC still recommends that nearly everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine, the effectiveness of this year's vaccine is in question. The influenza A(H3N2) strain, which is driving most infections this season, is genetically different from the strain included in this year's flu vaccine. This means the new variant could potentially escape immunity even for people who have received their flu shot. So, what's the best course of action? Health officials say the medications oseltamivir phosphate (available as a generic version or under the trade name Tamiflu®), zanamivir (trade name Relenza®), peramivir (trade name Rapivab®), and baloxavir marboxil (trade name Xofluza®) are most effective when taken within 1-2 days after flu symptoms begin. But here's the catch: these antiviral drugs are not a substitute for the flu vaccine. In fact, the CDC still recommends that nearly everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine as the best way to reduce the risk of severe illness and death. So, what's the bottom line? While the flu vaccine may not be 100% effective this year, it's still the best defense against the flu. And if you do get sick, antiviral drugs can help, but they should be taken within 1-2 days of symptoms starting. So, get your flu shot, and if you do get sick, seek medical attention promptly.
