With the threat of anthrax taking center stage in nearly all realms of media coverage, a far more common and consistently lethal biological agent is sweeping through the Mid-South unnoticed.
Influenza — the flu — is currently in peak season, and the medical community is facing another year of possible vaccine shortages. In addition, they are concerned about a possible increase in patients due to the similarity of flu symptoms to symptoms related to anthrax.
While anthrax has been attributed to one confirmed death, and possibly two more as of Monday, the influenza virus is associated, on average, with more than 20,000 deaths nationwide and 100,000 hospitalizations every year.
“We have had a surprising number of people calling about anthrax medications,” said Debra Hollins, a nurse at the Peabody Health Care Clinics. “There really hasn’t been the same amount of calls about flu vaccines compared to last year, it seems.”
Hollins added that some health care facilities are preparing for a possible increase in normal patient visits during this cold and flu seasons due to some people simply “wanting to be on the safe side.”
While federal officials have asked pharmaceutical manufacturers to increase production of antibiotics that can fight forms of the anthrax virus, FDA officials say flu vaccine availability will likely fall well short for a second straight year.
In addition, officials say that the available doses may be further delayed until November or December, and will only be distributed to those that are at a high risk factor for life-threatening complications.
The FDA cited lower than expected production yields and manufacturing problems for the expected shortage in the flu vaccine.
While the rare and terrorist-related threat of anthrax exposure continues to be the primary focus of health officials, there remains a concern for the shortage of flu vaccines.
Center for Disease Control health reports indicate that a greater number of mutations of the influenza viral strain are being reported as the flu season begins and makes it annual passage across the country.
“There are more than 200 subtypes of the virus,” said Jacqueline DeFouw, an employee at The U of M Student Health Center.
Although flu-related complications occur in every age group, the most susceptible to the life-threatening complications of the virus are usually the elderly and the young, according to a CDC report.
However, DeFouw said students should get the vaccine as soon as it is made available.
While flu symptoms may be similar to the symptoms of anthrax, some students at The U of M said they will not be concerned when and if the flu symptoms set in.
“Nothing has changed,” said Josh Gwatney, a student at The U of M. “There is just the whole paranoia thing going on, and if someone catches a cold and thinks they may have anthrax, then that is a little too much.”
“Illness in college is common, but the seasonal changes make it worse,” said Jacqueline DeFouw.
College students are prone to illness, according to DeFouw. College students’ schedules and activities add to their susceptibility.
According to drkoop.com, the flu is caused by three different types of virus. The viruses generally appear in the fall and last until the spring.
Although there is a national shortage, the flu shot is recommended for everyone. The Student Health Center has put in their order and is hoping to receive it in full.
As soon as the Health Center receives their shipment, they will let students know. U of M students can then receive a flu shot at the Health Center for a small fee. The student must set up an appointment and bring their student ID.
Many things students can do to stay healthy are simple, said DeFouw. Washing hands frequently with soap and water is one of the simplest things anyone can do to stay healthy.
“Your skin is the first line of defense,” said DeFouw.
Getting adequate rest is another way to stay healthy. Most adults need about 9 hours of sleep a day.
“I go to bed late and get up early with no time to rest,” said Julie Roberts, a sophomore majoring in physical education. “And that probably doesn’t help.”
Many college students engage in activities that tear down their immune systems. Drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco reduce the ability of the immune system to defend against disease.
Many college students are also under a lot of stress. Finding a way to relax and vent is helpful for staying healthy. Sleeping, reading and listening to music allow students to relax and re-focus on the job at hand.
“When I get totally stressed out, I just get on the Internet and read my e-mail,” said Adrianne Ward, a junior majoring in music education.
DeFouw encouraged students to go to the health center when they are not feeling well. Visits are free with a valid student ID.
“Don’t suffer. Come and see us,” said DeFouw.
