AMA Web site useful for flu season
Only three weeks into flu season, the H1N1 virus has become widespread in 46 of 50 U.S. states. The virus has hit children and young adults the hardest, unlike the seasonal flu, which is normally more dangerous for people over age 65. It was originally predicted that 40 million doses of the vaccine would be available in the U.S. in October. Due to problems with production, supplies are limited to 28 million to 30 million doses.
With swine flu updates dominating the media, many are overreacting and heading straight to their doctor’s office or local emergency room, even with the slightest of symptoms. They sit in the waiting room for hours, breathing the same germ-infested air as everyone else waiting to see a doctor. Where is the logic in this?
The American Medical Association (AMA) teamed up with Microsoft and personal health record provider Healthy Circles to launch an interactive flu Web site. The free site helps patients determine the severity of their own flu symptoms, or the symptoms of a loved one. Doctors can use the site to communicate with patients and will eventually be able to prescribe routine medications online. The site has been described as “Facebook for healthcare”.
The interactive flu Web site is the first step in a larger AMA initiative that will eventually include new conditions in addition to the flu.
If you are worried that you have contracted H1N1, consider using an interactive Web site first before heading to the doctor. Wash your hands, eat healthy, get plenty of rest and stay home if you are not feeling well. Take these precautions to keep your family healthy this flu season.
By Courtney Siekirk
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