Flu vaccine targeting 2 new strains now available

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota health officials say the upcoming flu season may pack a punch.

While half the normal number of flu cases were reported in Minnesota last year, two new strains are expected to make the rounds.

Kris Ehresmann, the infectious disease director at the Minnesota Department of Health, says exact predictions are impossible, but the new strains mean Minnesota may experience a regular flu season.

Vaccine targeting the new flu strains is already available in Minnesota.

But Minnesota Public Radio reports (http://bit.ly/RjZbAr) it won't necessarily protect people from a third potential threat: a mild variation of swine flu transmitted through direct contact with pigs. There have been about 150 cases reported nationwide over the past few weeks. Veterinarians at the Minnesota State Fair will be on the lookout for sick pigs.

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Information from: Minnesota Public Radio News, http://www.mpr.org

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