BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Oct. 5, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dr. Tannaz Zahirpour, DO of The Beverly Hills Comprehensive Medical Group urges everyone to protect themselves against an unpredictable flu season by getting a flu shot as early in the season as possible. The doctor says immunizations take about two weeks to reach full efficacy. The office just received its stock of mercury and preservative free flu shots, which are safe for most people.
Dr. Zahirpour expresses concern over recent flu statistics, "Last year we saw an increase in younger people needing urgent medical services because of the flu, whereas usually it's people over 65. Flu symptoms can be very severe, and even life threatening. As always, the best solution is prevention."
Every flu season the virus is different and unpredictable. Between flu seasons, researchers develop new flu vaccines that cover the most serious potential strains. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that this year's flu shot immunizes against H1N1, H3N2 (both influenza A viruses), and two strains of influenza B. CDC statistics showed that the shot reduced the incidence of people seeking medical services for flu-like symptoms by 60% last year, which Dr. Zahirpour notes is quite successful for a flu vaccine.
In addition to getting vaccinated against the flu, there are several other infection control measures the doctor recommends people practice daily. She advises the public to wash hands frequently and keep them away from the face, and avoid close contact with those who are ill.
To avoid spreading infection, Dr. Zahirpour says patients should always cough or sneeze into a tissue, and throw it away immediately - if no tissues are handy, coughing into an elbow is the best alternative. For those who do fall ill, she says it's helpful to stay home and rest for at least 24 hours or until any fever subsides.
Dr. Zahirpour encourages maintaining a strong immune system with these health habits, "Make sure to get adequate sleep at night, make healthy nutrition choices, drink plenty of water, keep your stress levels in check, and continue with a regular exercise regimen."