The sniffling and coughing season

Flu season is upon us again, but authorities say it won't exhibit as mild a form this year as in seasons past. On Friday, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officially declared flu an epidemic in Maryland and 46 other states, meaning the number of new cases significantly exceeds what would be expected during a normal year. Health officials are stockpiling vaccine and making it available at hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and doctors' offices, but members of the public have to do their part as well by doing everything possible to get vaccinated before they get sick.

January 16, 2013