The flu season may have started around October, but we are right in the middle of its peak. That peak normally comes between December and February, with many more cases during those months.

With the season well underway, we are also getting a better idea of this year’s flu impact across the country. Typically reports are published at the end of the flu season, but the CDC is releasing weekly records for the public. Reviewing this information allows readers the chance to witness the impact the flu has on the country as it is happening.

According to current estimates from federal health officials, the virus has already affected millions in the United States. About 6-7 million, in fact.

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Although tuberculosis is most well-known for causing a distinctive cough, there are other types of tuberculosis in which individuals don’t experience the symptom at all.

Two types of the disease don’t produce a cough: Bone and joint TB and latent TB.

This is important information to know and recognize because if TB isn’t identified early-on it can become more advanced and even cause death.

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A city in eastern China recently enacted a policy regarding stray dogs that may have a tremendous influence on the relatively high rabies rate for the region. Unfortunately, the new policy already earned serious criticism from locals. The enforcement methods used for the changes are highly concerning to many dog owners.

Hangzhou authorities announced in mid-November 2018 that new rules would go in effect for dog ownership.

The news came shortly after the city banned 34 breeds of canines, which also caused fear and frustration.

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Every year it’s recommended that all individuals receive the influenza vaccination. The flu shot offers protection against specific strains of that season’s virus.

But, along with flu prevention, the vaccine may improve health in other areas. Recent studies have shown that this vaccine is especially important to individuals with a history of heart problems.

These heart problems could include heart failure, heart disease, or even a stroke.

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In the early 1900s, rabies killed over 100 people each year. Now, the CDC states that only one to three deaths occur annually here in the United States.

Today, it’s mandatory that all dogs in the U.S., including household pets and strays, receive the rabies vaccine. Animal Control may not administer the vaccine, but the shelters that accept the strays are required to give the shot upon intake. Many expect that step to virtually eradicate rabies across the country.

In January 2017, a woman from Virginia attended a Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh, India, as noted by the CDC. Unbeknownst to her, she contracted rabies when a stray puppy bit her. Instead of seeking medical attention for the bite, she rinsed the wound with water. The report didn’t say when the woman was bitten, but when she returned home a few months later, she began experiencing some symptoms. These included flu-like symptoms, pain, and tingling in her right arm, and other signs mimicking a panic attack.

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