RVNA Answers Questions About Influenza B After Death of New Canaan Child

New Canaan, Connecticut is mourning the sudden death of one of their own. Ten-year-old Nico Mallozzi, a student at West Elementary School passed away on Sunday, January 14 as a result of the flu - Influenza B. Please keep the Mallozzi family and the entire New Canaan community in your prayers.

In a letter to parents, Bryan D. Luizzi, Ed. D. New Canaan  Superintendent said, “As we know, Influenza poses a serious health risk, and regardless of its possible connection with this tragedy, it is important for everyone to take appropriate precautions, including receiving the influenza vaccination as recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).  Additionally, anyone experiencing signs and symptoms of the Flu should seek medical advice from a physician, and please do not send your child to school if he/she is not feeling well.”

On the heels of this tragedy, locals are worried, and they have many questions. We contacted the RVNA’s CEO Theresa Santoro to ask her some questions about the flu, more specifically, Influenza B.

How do I know if my child has Influenza B?

We have not seen any information that suggests that the symptoms of B are different from the symptoms of other strains of the influenza virus.  Laboratory tests can identify the strain of influenza virus that a patient has.

How common is Influenza B?

In Connecticut...Of the positive laboratory tests that have been reported to CT DPH during the current season (August 27 – January 6), 16.2% were influenza B viruses.  72% were Type A (subtype unspecified).  So I would say that B is less common than A. However, more people in CT have been hospitalized with B than with A. According to the CDC, Influenza A (H3N2) is circulating widely. And the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) information posted on Jan 12 (the most recent available), “Influenza A (H3N2) viruses appear to predominate within the US and Connecticut.”  However, also according to DPH, more people have been hospitalized with influenza B virus (64) than with Influenza A (H3N2) (49), with data as of January 6, 2018.

Does the flu vaccine prevent it?

The flu vaccine prevents it IF the strain in the vaccine matches exactly the strain that the person has.  However, flu strains are notorious for mutating as they move through a population. And the vaccine has to be developed far in advance, so it usually is not a perfect match.

The quadrivalent (four-component) vaccine, which is what RVNA has, contains two strains of Influenza B.

While the flu vaccine doesn’t provide 100% protection (due to the mutations that develop), it is beneficial and the CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and over get one.

Is the flu shot effective this year?

According to the CDC, the flu vaccine is about 30% effective this year.  The flu vaccine we have this year contains the A (H3N2) strain, but flu viruses are known for mutating as they move through the population. That doesn’t mean the flu vaccine is useless; it is still the best defense that has been developed.  It also can reduce the severity of symptoms, shorten the duration of illness, and protect the people around us that are most vulnerable, which are the young and the elderly.

Is it still worthwhile to get a flu shot this year?

Yes, definitely.  The CDC is currently recommending influenza vaccination for everyone ages 6 months and older.  Flu season can continue well into the spring months. Click here for RVNA flu clinic information.

When and where can someone get the flu shot from RVNA?

People can come to our building at 27 Governor Street between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Appointments are needed for children 10 and younger, but all others can drop in.  We are also open for flu shots by appointment on Thursdays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

How can people protect themselves in addition to getting a flu shot?

We suggest people follow these practices:

-Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

-Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

-Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth without washing your hands first. This is a common way germs are spread.

-Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

-Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet.

The RVNA advises residents to visit the Center of Disease Control (CDC) website for additional details.

*Image courtesy of CDC

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Submitted by Southbury, CT

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