|
Preparing for the Flu Season
While there is always a normal amount of flu virus in the community all year round, the incidence of flu usually goes up from December through March. The single most effective way to prevent getting the flu is to get vaccinated and the best time to do it is right now. Since the flu virus changes every year, it is necessary to get the most updated vaccine. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), vaccine supplies are expected to be in good supply this year. While the CDC believes 75 million doses are adequate to immunize those most at risk, the United States may have as many as 100 million doses available so everyone should be able to get immunized.
"As more and more people get vaccinated, there is less of a chance that there will be an epidemic, so no one should miss getting the vaccine," emphasizes Steven Christianson, Medical Director of VNS Home Care/VNS Choice. "Even more important," Dr. Christianson says, "people who are at a high risk of complications from the flu should definitely get vaccinated."
These high-risk groups include:
- People who are 50 years and older
- People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, depressed immune systems, cardiac disease, and respiratory disease
- People who live in nursing homes or other long-term facilities
- People who live with or come in contact with high-risk groups
- People who are health care workers and caregivers
The flu vaccine doesn’t contain a live virus so there is no chance of getting the flu from the shot. Most people don’t have side effects and only experience a slightly sore arm and perhaps a low-grade fever or mild body aches.
People who should not get the flu shot are those who have an allergic reaction to eggs or those who have had an extreme reaction to the vaccine in the past. People with a chronic health problem or history of allergy should consult with their doctor before getting the vaccine.
|
