Seasonal Flu

This year, for a lot of reasons, flu is getting a lot of attention.  

But what most people don’t realize is that every fall and winter flu is a problem that has to be managed. Somewhere between five and 20 percent of the country’s population gets the flu every year, which amounts to millions of cases. For most, the flu is a few days of feeling as if you’ve been hit by a truck. For some, flu leads to dangerous complications. What’s the difference, who’s at risk and how do you manage that risk? Read on.

22
Sep
2009
Seasonal Flu Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
Seasonal
Tuesday, September 22, 2009 04:45 PM

Why get a flu vaccination?
Because it is by far the best way to protect yourself against the flu.

Who can get a seasonal flu vaccine?
Any one older than six months and doesn’t have conditions that cause the vaccine to pose a health risk is eligible to get a flu shot.

What are the the conditions that would cause me to avoid the vaccine?
If you are allergic or hypersensitive to eggs or egg protein, if you’ve had a flu shot in the past that produced a reaction or if you have Guillain-Barre Syndrome you should talk to your physician before proceeding with a vaccine.

What kinds of flu vaccines are available?
There are two kinds of vaccines. The flu shot contains virus that have been killed.  It is given with a needle, usually in the arm. It is approved for people older than 6 months of age. The nasal spray contains live, but weakened flu viruses that do not cause the flu. It is approved for healthy, non-pregnant people 2-49 years of age.

Can I get a flu vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes.  In fact, pregnant women and breastfeeding moms are among those recommended by the CDC to get a flu vaccine. 

Can I get a flu vaccine if I don’t feel well or have a fever?
It is better to wait until you feel better to get your vaccination.

Can I get the flu from being vaccinated?
No. Flu vaccines cannot cause the flu. The viruses in flu vaccines are either killed or weakened. The vaccine works by priming your body’s defenses in case you are exposed to an actual flu virus. 

Can the seasonal vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine be given at the same time?
Seasonal flu and 2009 H1N1 vaccines may be given on the same day if administered as shots. The Flu Mist vaccines cannot be given on the same day.

 

Bookmark and Share
< Prev   Next >