The flu season is underway and we are already seeing high volumes of cases of influenza.

This season, there are expected to be additional influenza strains affecting our area. The traditional seasonal influenza that we are all familiar with will affect may of us this fall, winter, and spring. This year, however, the H1N1 influenza, formerly called "swine flu," will also cause much illness. Up to the minute information is available at the following websites, where the doctors at Meridian also get their flu information from:

www.cdc.gov

www.flu.gov

Visit these sites to answer all of your questions about the flu, H1N1 flu, and vaccinations.

We are receiving small amounts of H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines from our supplier periodically. Though it is expected that we will ultimately have enough for everyone who wants one, at any one time our supplies are low. We request that you call in advance to confirm availability.

The doctors at Meridian Medical Group recommend that you receive BOTH the seasonal influenza vaccine AND the H1N1 influenza vaccine. Both are considered safe and are produced in similar fashion with the same vaccine technology. Thus, if you have tolerated the seasonal flu vaccine in the past, you will be able to tolerate the H1N1 vaccine. Each vaccine does not adequately protect against both strains of influenza, thus for the best protection, we recommend you receive BOTH vaccines.

If you have any questions after visiting the above websites, you may contact our office and speak with one of our nurses, or doctors if needed.

Wishing you a safe and healthy influenza season!

The Doctors and staff of Meridian Medical Group