Is This Year's Flu Shot Working?

The Oklahoma State Health Department reports that there have been 63 confirmed cases of influenza in Oklahoma since September 1. Two people have died from the flu.

Monday, January 3rd 2011, 3:44 pm

By: News 9

Gan Matthews, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma State Health Department reported that there have been 63 confirmed cases of influenza in Oklahoma since September 1. Two people have died from the flu.

Flu cases picked up just before the holidays, which is normal. Some people reported they came down with the flu after getting a flu shot. Doctors said they are coming down with something but probably not the flu, just flu-like symptoms.

"Patients will get a viral respiratory infection, the common cold," said Norman physician Steve Lindsey. "But they don't have the true influenza."

Unlike a year ago, supplies of flu vaccine are more than adequate. The current vaccine protects against H1N1, plus two other flu strains.

"From what CDC is sending out, we are assured that this vaccine is covering the flu that they expected to get this year," said Cleveland County Health Department official Beverly Bymun.

Flu season is still in its early phases, so health officials encourage everyone to get a flu shot.