Non-Invasive Nasal Ventilation: who knows how to care for nostrils Patients who use non-invasive nasal ventilation (NINV) may experience dryness of the nasal airway. This dryness may lead to cracked skin, bleeding and inability to use a nasal mask system. To avoid this – initiate proper nasal care as soon as you begin nasal ventilation. The staging of intervention can be as simple as using a humidifier with the respiratory support device (BiPAP or volume ventilator) or introducing nasal care products. Speak with your respiratory therapist or physician about the best approach for you. The following Ayr ®Products for nasal care can be obtained at your local pharmacy or by accessing http://www.bfascher.com/links.asp Herbal Inhaler - Natural way to open nasal passages with aromatic action. Saline Nasal Drops - Restores moisture to dry nasal membranes and aids in eliminating congestion. Saline Nasal Gel - Restores moisture to dry, irritated nasal membranes. Saline Nasal Mist - Loosens and thins congestion . Restores moisture to dry nasal membranes Flu Season: MDA Offers Inoculation Support With flu activity typically picking up in late December and intensifying in January and February, it is not unusual to start seeing flu cases in New York City at this time. It is not too late to get a flu shot. With flu vaccine available in hospitals, health clinics, and doctor's offices, New Yorkers over 50 should get vaccinated against the flu." Dr. Cohen added that New Yorkers should get their flu shot from their doctors, but for New Yorkers who are uninsured, the Department of Health (DOH) offers free flu and pneumonia shots at walk-in clinics throughout the City. DOH's toll-free Flu Information Line, 1-866-FLU-LINE (1-866-358-5463) , and Web site nyc.gov/health, provides up-to-date information on vaccination locations and other relevant information. For each year's flu season, a new flu vaccine is needed because flu viruses rapidly change in form as they circulate worldwide, making the previous year's vaccine obsolete. Influenza commonly causes several days of high fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and muscle aches. People with the flu should drink plenty of liquids, rest, and contact a doctor if they feel very ill or do not feel better after a few days. The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) continues to support patients in the community with free flu vaccinations if insurance does not cover the inoculation. For more information contact the MDA in NY City at 212-689-9040 or your local MDA offices.