REGION PREPARES FOR EXPECTED INFLUENZA OUTBREAK.

Byline: Susan Abram Staff Writer

SANTA CLARITA - Despite concerns that this year's influenza vaccine may not fully protect against one strain that is circulating, city and federal officials urge residents to get a flu shot earlier this season.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported this week that the flu is circulating nationwide at a higher level and earlier in the season than usual. Colorado and Texas show widespread cases of the influenza already.

Another concern is that this year's vaccine may be weaker than one strain of the flu - the Fujian, a derivative of the Panama strain.

``Each year in the United States 36,000 people die from complications related to the flu,'' said Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson in a prepared statement. ``Early indications are that we may be in for a more severe season than in previous three years.''

City and county health experts said it's difficult to predict if Los Angeles will see an outbreak this season. Two cases of flu were reported earlier this month in two young children from West Los Angeles, but those offer no clues.

``We have no indications what will happen this year,'' said Dr. Laurene Mascola, with the Acute Communicative Disease Unit for the county's Health Services Department. ``It's still a good opportunity for people to get a flu shot. There's no vaccine shortage. This is a different year in that we're saying anyone, even children over 6 months should have one.''

Gerald Subar, pharmacy director at the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, said the vaccine still can protect against the Fujian strain. The flu typically begins to appear between December and March, peaking in January and February. Health officials say it takes about two weeks for the vaccine to become effective.

``Even though the vaccine is not an exact match, the thought out there is that it's close enough,'' Subar said. ``They share the same protein pattern and similarity. Although it won't give you total protection, it will lessen any symptoms.''

Symptoms of the flu include sudden headaches and a dry cough, aching muscles, exhaustion, and fever.

The hospital will hold a flu shot clinic for seniors 65 and older from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Dec. 3 at the Canyon Club Senior Apartments, 26035 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus. For information, call [phone].

Susan Abram, [phone]

susan.abram(at)dailynews.com

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(color in SAC edition only) Janet Govea prepares for winter with a flu shot from pharmacist Angel Park of Sav-on drugstore in Canyon Country. Fed officials are urging residents to get their flu vaccines soon.

David R. Crane/Staff Photographer