Based on the numbers of people visiting their doctors with flu-like symptoms, flu season has arrived in the five northern counties. Lab tests show that H1N1, the flu virus in the 2009 pandemic, is the virus most identified in the positive flu tests so far. “The virus hasn’t really changed,” says Jeff Lee, Panhandle Health District epidemiologist. “It disproportionately affects young and middle-aged adults. It’s also targeted by the flu vaccine.” Symptoms that drive people to call their doctors include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Two vaccines are available to help prevent catching the flu. One targets three viruses and the other targets four. Both vaccines target the viruses that are showing up in most positive flu tests/Cynthia Taggart, Panhandle Health District. More here.

Question: Have you or any members of your family had -- currently have -- the flu?