205 W 5th Ave Ellensburg, WA 98926-2887
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Kittitas (pronounced 'KITT-i-tass') County is located in central Washington State. It spans from the lush forested Cascade Mountains to the upper Yakima River Valley plains and the Columbia River.
Kittitas County, WA - 12/11/2014 - To date, Washington State is reporting sporadic influenza activity according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The most common influenza strain this season is influenza A (H3N2). According to the CDC, when this influenza A strain is the most common, flu season tend to be more severe. There is concern that as flu activity increases, this flu season could become severe.
It is not too late to get a flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months receive the flu shot every year. The flu vaccine is the best protection available against the seasonal flu. This year’s vaccine covers influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and an influenza B strain. It is possible to get the flu, even after receiving the vaccine. You may have been exposed prior to the vaccine taking effect, or you may have been exposed to a strain of flu that is not covered in the vaccine. “Flu vaccines are the most important step in protecting against the seasonal flu, but people also need to wash hands regularly, cover their cough, and avoid exposure” asserts Liz Whitaker, Community Health Supervisor. Both nationally and in Washington State, some influenza A specimens have been characterized as strain that has drifted from this year’s vaccine. However, vaccination can still provide some protection against viruses that have drifted. The vaccine will also protect against other flu strains that may become more common later in the flu season. For more information about seasonal influenza, visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm. For questions about the flu vaccine or to schedule an appointment, please call the Kittitas County Public Health Department at 509-962-7515.
Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us
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Contact: Kasey Knutson, Public Information Officer, 509-962-7515