The Flu Has Arrived, but Vaccination is Still Beneficial

Bangor, Maine - With the official arrival of the Influenza Virus in Maine, State health officials and hospital infection control experts both advise precautions against the spread of the flu, while emphasizing that there is still time for those who have not had their annual flu shot.

"Even though it takes about two weeks for full immunity to build after vaccination," notes Jessica DeGrasse RN, infection prevention specialist at St. Joseph Hospital, "we expect the flu to be on the increase for at least the next several weeks, so it's not too late to get your flu shot and have it be effective against the flu."

As a precaution against the spread of the flu to weak and vulnerable patients, until further notice St. Joseph Hospital is currently requesting that anyone with flu-like symptoms refrain from visiting the hospital unless they are actually being admitted for or seeking medical treatment.

Though this year's outbreak appears to be the most severe since 2009, says the Maine Centers for Disease Control (Maine CDC), this year's vaccine formulation is a good match for the strains circulating this year and there is plenty of vaccine available.

In addition to immunization, says DeGrasse, it is important for everyone to remember to practice proper hygiene to prevent the spread of the flu. This includes frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding close contact with those who are sick with the flu, and staying at home if you have flu-like symptoms.


Signs of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue.