So, Let’s Start with the Important Stuff…

The CDC has moved into full support and reporting mode.  H1N1 flu is now present in 47 states, so it has spread rather quickly.  While the American Medical Association can be criticized for a lot of things – and, I’ve been one of the more vocal about trying to get our profession to take a leadership position on healthcare reform – they also can do wonderful things on behalf of the American public.  I draw your attention to their new flu Web site, www.AMAfluhelp.org.  On the site, you can learn more about H1N1 and seasonal flu.  It’s a free resource, and I encourage everyone to take the risk assessment to help determine the best course of action you can take based on any symptoms you may have developed.                                                                  

And, unless there are contraindications, go get your flu shot!!  For those of us born in 1950 or before, it’s not as a big of a risk this season but – for everyone else – get on it.  Even for us more seasoned flu veterans, we should get on it as well.  I’ve gotten my shots.  I hope you do the same.

Kevin Fickenscher, MD

The views and opinions expressed herein are my own and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Dell Perot Systems or its affiliates.