If it seems the flu season is particularly harsh this year, that’s probably is because it is; at least according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC].

In late December the CDC issued an official Health Advisory related to season influenza A(H3N2).

“In the past A(H3N2) virus-predominant influenza seasons have been associated with more hospitalizations and deaths in persons aged 65 years and older and young children, compared to other age groups,” the advisory states.

It also states that the vaccine effectiveness has been lower against A(H3N2) viruses than other prevalent strains this year.

While it has seemed that a number of people who work at Town Hall in Fountain Hills have been hit by the flu this season, Town Director of Administration Dave Trimble said he does not believe the season has been worse in terms of numbers of people stricken. However, he said a few of the employees have been sicker than usual for the flu.

Dr. Jyoti Patel with Fountain Hills Pediatrics and Internal Medicine said she has a list of things people should know to help them get through a bout with the flu or a cold.

*Antibiotics don’t work. Prevention and supportive care is essential.

*Watch for secondary complications like dehydration, respiratory distress or secondary bacterial infections and seek emergency medical care.

*Prevention with good hand washing, avoiding crowds, eating fruits and vegetables ( the color of the rainbow), fermented foods rich in probiotics, stay hydrated with lots of water, irrigate your sinuses daily. Also, get plenty of sleep, exercise and reduce your stress.

*Tamiflu is not a panacea for every virus. It’s only effective in shortening the duration of influenza if taken in the first 24 hours and can have a list of serious side effects.

*If you get the flu, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, steam and irrigate your sinuses, drink herbal healing teas like elderberry and Echinacea, load up on vitamin C- and A-rich foods, and if ok with your health care provider, consider natural remedies like oscillococcinum, astralagus, zinc and essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint.

“Always seek medical advice if your condition is worsening or you have an infant or loved one with chronic heart or lung conditions,” Patel said.

The Maricopa County Health Department recommends people seek their doctor’s advice if they are concerned about their illness, or fall into a high risk category – age 65 or older, have chronic medical conditions, pregnant women and young children.

County health officials recommend visiting your doctor’s office for an exam/evaluation. Sometimes seeing the doctor can take several days but, if you can wait, they encourage you to make an appointment.

No appointments are needed at urgent care centers for those who can’t wait to see their physician. This is the best option for those in need of immediate care, but their condition is not life threatening.

If the illness is life threatening, go to the hospital emergency room.