January has been a busy month for us …
Our practice relocated from up the street to our new space in the Cabrini Tower. The views are spectacular. Thanks to our friends and patients who came to the open house and had a personal tour. There are two medical issues worthy of note right now. First, in the community there is a viral illness characterized by cough and cold symptoms, sometimes with a low grade fever under 101, but patients do not feel that sick. This is not influenza and because it is a viral process, and there are no effective treatments. Do not take antibiotics for this illness. The other infection in the community right now is influenza. We have seen cases in the office and it is widespread throughout the United States. Although the current year’s vaccine is not a perfect match for one of the circulating strains of influenza, there is considerable debate as to whether or not a vaccine mismatch means no protection or only partial protection against the flu. In addition, other strains which circulate are included in the current vaccine and are a good match. If you develop fever, chills, body aches, and feel sick enough to take to bed, you might have influenza. Tamiflu is an effective treatment, whether or not you received the influenza vaccine. Call our office to discuss these symptoms early. Tamiflu is only effective if taken in the first 48 hours of your illness. Depending on your insurance, the cost is about $150 for a course of treatment. January.