saintsfan

Jeepers is correct. The flu this year has mutated somewhat. The shots, when first doled out were over 80% effective. Now they are down to about 40%. But that is not uncommon. Each year the flu shot is built around what strain the CDC thinks is going to be the most common strain. This year, like in years past, they kind of guessed wrong. It is still very effective against several strains of the flu. The other week our walk in clinic had over 80 cases of flu come thru their doors.. and all of those people did NOT get a flu shot. I have missed my flu shot twice in the past few years, and guess what? Those years I got the flu. Even working in a hospital we are given the choice of whether to get the shot or not. I am a firm believer in getting the shot. But do take extra precautions like others have mentioned. It definitely helps.

Thanks for the b'day wishes... it's nice to be 11 again (for the 5th time). Sorry I haven't been on in a while.. busy, busy, busy!

Ok, I didn't take time to read all the articles listed above... but because I work in a hospital, we have been given updates from time to time about outbreaks. One thing that has been stressed over and over is that ebola will be very limited in the US simply because of our level of hygiene. Yes, I know there are sections in this country where cleanliness is not practiced. The keys we were told were to keep clean. Especially washing our hands and a day doesn't go by where I haven't washed, alcohol'd my hands at least a dozen times. I noticed today at some eating establishments that they are requiring employees to not only wash their hands regularly, but are utilizing rubber gloves. As for how it spreads, I am not sure. Of course body fluid exposure is tops on the list. So, just keep up with the news (not mainstream of course) and make sure to have good, adequate cleaning supplies handy.

Husband of mt3b here, and have to tell you, on those masks.. if you're like me and have facial hair, they won't seal very well. I work in a hospital, in the maintenance department and we had to be fitted... Was told because of my trimmed goatee, that it won't help me.