The Flu
Cough and cold season is just around the corner, and may have already started for some of us. Now that the kids are back in school and the colder months are ahead of us, we tend to stay indoors more, and we have a higher chance of catching each others germs. One of the worst germs we face is the influenza (flu) virus. The best way to stay healthy this season is to prevent the flu by receiving your flu shot
The Flu Vaccine
Unlike other vaccines, the “flu vaccine” changes every year, because the influenza (flu) virus changes every year. The flu vaccine is designed to cover the strains of the influenza virus that we think are going to be the most troublesome this year. Once the formulation is decided upon, the manufacturers have to work very quickly to produce enough of the vaccine for everyone who needs it. Because of this tight timeline, any production problems with the vaccines can cause delays.
Vaccine Shortages
Shortages of the flu vaccine should be minimized this flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that nearly 132 million doses of the flu vaccine will be available for the U.S. market. Although this does seem like a sufficient amount of vaccine, some shortages still may occur for the pediatric population.
The good new is that the FluMist (nasal form of the flu vaccine) is now approved for children as young as 2 years old and up. This alternate form may help with the distribution of the vaccine to all who want it.
Who Should Get the Vaccine
In general, anyone who wants the flu vaccine can receive it, and it is recommended that you obtain a flu shot every year. When shortages of the flu vaccine occur, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) makes recommendations on persons that are at high risk due to complications from the flu. These high risk groups include, but are not limited to:
- All children from 6 months up to 5 years old; Children aged 6 months to 8 years old should receive 2 doses of the flu vaccine that is indicated for their age group.
- Anyone 50 years old or older Women who will be pregnant during flu season
- Anyone with chronic health problems such as, heart disease, lung or kidney disease, diabetes, blood disorders, etc.
- Anyone with a weakened immune system, such as, HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments with x-rays or chemotherapy
- Residents living in a nursing home or long-term care facility Health care providers
- Caregivers to anyone on this list above
Who Should NOT Get the Vaccine
The Flu vaccine is NOT recommended to those who have had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine in the past, allergic to eggs, children younger than 6 months old, and anyone with a moderate to severe fever at the time of administration.
For more information about the flu and the flu vaccine, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/ and www.findaflushot.com for flu clinic locations.
