East Northport – A harrowing personal story is reminding local families of the very real danger posed by seasonal influenza. Frank Bosco, 63, thought he had a simple cold last winter, but the virus quickly turned deadly, landing him in three Northwell hospitals for 116 days.
From a routine cold to a battle for life
According to Northwell Health officials, Bosco required dialysis and was even placed on a lung‑transplant list during his stay. His wife, Theresa Bosco, took a four‑month leave from work to care for him, describing the ordeal as “a major toll on the family.”
“Never got the flu, knock wood. So I figured, you know, it’s not broken, don’t fix it type of thing,” Theresa said, explaining why the Boscos had never received a flu shot before their experience.
Doctors stress early vaccination
Physicians at North Shore University Hospital note that flu season has already begun in the region, with ten patients hospitalized so far. Dr. Bruce Farber, Northwell’s chief of epidemiology, urged residents, “Every American over the age of six months should get a flu shot every year.”
Dr. Dwayne Breining of Northwell Lab Services added that testing shows flu activity started earlier this year, predicting the peak will arrive about two months before the holidays – a crucial window for vaccination.
New vaccine options on the horizon
Medical staff also highlighted the development of a newer mRNA‑based flu vaccine, which could adapt more quickly to mutating strains. While it may cause stronger side effects and is not yet widely available, the technology promises a closer match to circulating viruses.
Family hopes their story saves lives
For the Boscos, the message is simple. “You don’t want to get sick like I did. It’s very, very tough coming back. I got lucky that I came back,” Frank said.
After his recovery, the family celebrated their son’s wedding, an event they once feared would not happen. “They didn’t think he was gonna make it on Valentine’s Day,” Theresa recalled.
Take action now
Local health officials encourage anyone who has not yet received the flu vaccine to schedule an appointment at their nearest pharmacy or clinic. Early vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps safeguard the broader community, especially seniors and those with chronic conditions.
For more information on flu vaccination sites in Suffolk County, visit the Northwell Health website or call your primary care provider.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
