Medical Clinic PC

Information may not be reliable

Several forms of influenza (the flu) have been making the rounds. Our flu surveillance data shows us that influenza is widespread in Iowa, but it seems to be hitting a higher-than-normal number of school-aged children, said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, Iowa state epidemiologist. Although there are always strains of the flu that are not covered by vaccination in any given season, at least three of the strains currntly circulting in Iowa can be prevented by the vaccine. If you or your school aged children have not been vaccinated you might still benefit from vaccination. If you develop fever, headache, fatigue, sore throat, sinus congestion, and body aches you may have the flu. You should see a physician immediately. Approximately 1,000 Iowans die each year from complications of the flu and pneumonia. Vaccination remains the best practice.

To find out more about the influenza activity throughout the nation and for more information about the flu visit the CDC (Center for Disease Control) Flu Website at www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/usmap.htm

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is a a group of wart causing viruses. It is also the cause of most cervical cancers in women. A vaccine named GARDASIL is now available which protects women from many of the paplloma viruses that cause cervical cancer. Currently the vaccine is appproved for females aged 9 to 26. The CDC is recommending that young girls recieve the vaccination at age 10-11. The reason for vaccinating this young is to insure that they have had the least opportunity to be exposed to the virus. The vaccination is currently covered by many insurance carriers and is a series of three vaccinations. If you are inter3ested in more information about this vaccine contact the medical clinic. If you have a group or organization that is interested in learning more about the vaccine Dr. Choate has a presentation available. Contact the clinic to find out more.