Austin Doctor Participates in Flu Vaccine Research Study in an Effort to Find More Effective Vaccines.
Austin, TX (PRWEB) December 22, 2013 -- As the Texas Department of Health releases data on the wide-spread number of children and adults who have suffered from the flu this season, Dr. Marta Katalenas of the Pediatric Center of Round Rock is participating in a flu research study that will help provide valuable data in the fight to prevent illness and death related to the influenza virus.
Partnering with Tekton Research, an Austin, TX medical research facility, Dr. Katalenas has begun a flu vaccine clinical trial that is designed to find more effective vaccines to protect families from the influenza virus. Families in the Austin metro area are encouraged to apply to participate in the clinical study which will provide all study-related flu vaccines and office visits at no cost and financial compensation for participants that complete all required office visits.
Dr. Katalenas has created a list of the Top 10 Flu Myths that parents should read if they are concerned about the effects of the flu vaccine. Many common beliefs about the flu are myths and are not supported by data. “Parents need to understand that the flu can kill. If you or your child gets the flu and spreads the virus to small children, the elderly, or those with chronic illnesses, you are putting them at a severe health risk. Everyone in every family should get the flu shot” says Dr. Katalenas.
The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed 8 pediatric deaths already during the 2013 / 2014 flu season. Getting the entire family, including parents and grandparents vaccinated is encouraged to help protect small children and those with chronic illnesses from the risk of fatality associated with influenza.
During the 2012-2013 flu season, the Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed 18 influenza-associated pediatric deaths in Texas. The flu season typically runs from October through May with most cases in Texas occurring in December, January, and February as families spend more time indoors and the opportunities for spreading germs increase.
Parents who would like to know more information about how to qualify for the influenza clinical trial or schedule an appointment with the Pediatric Center of Round Rock for a flu vaccine can visit their website at http://www.pediatriccenterofroundrock.com.
Melissa Shea, Dr. Marta Katalenas / Pediatric Center of Round Rock, http://www.drkatalenas.com/, +1 (512) 799-0217, [email protected]
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