The peak of cold-and-flu season is here. This has been our busiest stretch of the winter so far. There is a "little bit of everything" going around. We have definitely seen the flu, although truthfully this is a pretty average flu season with regards to timing and severity. The most significant aspect of this flu season is that the strain of Influenza A (H1N1) is resistant to Tamiflu (oseltamivir), which was the most effective antiviral medication in past years. We do have a rapid influenza test in the office that differentiates between influenza A and B. If we diagnose influenza within the first 48 hours of symptoms, we can use the type to guide our choice of antiviral medications. At best, the antivirals can shorten the duration and decrease the severity of the Flu. We can also use antivirals prophylactically for other family members.
Amongst other prevalent illnesses, we are seeing a lot of Strep throat, as well as a smattering of other things: stomach virus, viral throat infections, and a flu-like illness that mimics influenza but tests negative for it. I hope you and your family are able to avoid all of this, but if your child has concerning symptoms, please call the office.