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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released the latest recommendations for avoiding and treating the flu. Additionally, they announced that the timing of the flu season can vary unpredictably, but typically occurs between October and May, and peaks in the US between December and February.
Among their recommendations, the organization suggests antivirals to treat flu illness, especially for people who are at an increased risk of serious flu complications. To stress the importance of treatment, a representative for the CDC said, “Treating high risk people or people who are very sick with flu with antiviral drugs is very important. Studies show that prompt treatment with antiviral drugs can prevent serious flu complications, and can mean the difference between having a milder illness versus very serious illness that could result in a hospital stay.”
The effectiveness of the flu vaccine is an increasing concern for many, as the CDC says, “It’s not possible to predict with certainty if the vaccine will be a good match for circulating viruses, since the formula is made to protect against the flu viruses that research indicates will likely be most common during the season. However, experts must pick which viruses to include in the vaccine many months in advance so that the vaccine can be produced and delivered on time – flu viruses change constantly (called drift) – they can change from one season to the next or they can even change within the course of one flu season. Because of these factors, there is always the possibility of a less than optimal match between circulating viruses and the viruses in the vaccine.”
An enlightening new research review article, Multifunctional Marine Polymers, published by the National Institutes of Health, shares more information for antiviral flu-fighting alternatives. The publication sheds light on the antiviral properties of sulfated, fucose-rich polymers found in brown macroalgea — referred to commonly by many names, including brown seaweed – and the positive effects against the flu virus.
With concerns surrounding the potential failure of the flu vaccine to protect against viral infection, it’s important that the public is aware of all potential alternatives. When asked about this new report, Helene James, a representative for a well-known health brand, said “While people should always take proper steps to ensure that the recommendations of well informed organizations like the CDC are being followed, it is always a smart choice to include natural extracts that also work to support immune function and protect against infections.”
Those interested in learning more should visit http://bit.ly/1OinTh8. While there, readers are invited to take full advantage of the wealth of information available on the company site.
Release ID: 93026