Deadly flu strain has made its way to Middle Tennessee
A deadly flu strain hit Australia a few weeks ago is here in Middle Tennessee, and doctors warn it’s especially concerning for older people.
Dr. William Schaffner at Vandy Medical Center says the H3N2 strain arrived in the area early, and are already seeing people in the hospital. He also says “it’s the dominant virus across the country this year.” Dr. Schaffner says, “It evokes the complications of pneumonia, hospitalization, and–I’m afraid to say–dying, so if you need another reason to be vaccinated, you’ve got it.”
This year’s vaccine is good, but it’s never perfect. Regardless, he says if you haven’t been vaccinated run don’t walk to your doctor or pharmacy.
