Flu Shots

What is the flu (influenza)?

The flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. There are two main types of flu virus: Types A and B. Influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in Patients are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. The emergence of a new influenza virus causing illness in Patients can result in an influenza pandemic as occurred in the spring of 2009 when a new influenza A (H1N1) virus emerged to cause illness in Patients and spread worldwide.

The flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some patients, such as older patients, young children, and patients with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.

What is the flu shot?

The flu shot is a vaccine that protects against the most prevalent strains of flu. Every year, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) studies the potential strains that might be prevalent and creates a flu vaccine to protect against the anticipated strains.

Who should get a flu shot?

The CDC is currently recommending that everyone ages 6 months and older get a flu shot this season. In general, it is recommended that anyone who wants to reduce his or her chances of getting the flu should be vaccinated. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that the following high-risk groups of patients receive a flu shot:

• All children ages 6 months to 18 years
• All persons ages 50 years or older
• Children and adolescents (ages 6 months to 18 years) who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and who therefore might be at risk for developing Reye syndrome after an influenza infection
• Women who will be pregnant during the influenza season
• Adults and children who have chronic pulmonary (including asthma), cardiovascular (except hypertension), renal, hepatic, hematological or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus)
• Adults and children who have immunosuppression (including immunosuppression caused by medications or by human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV)
• Adults and children who have any condition that can compromise respiratory function or the handling of respiratory secretions, or that can increase the risk for aspiration (for example, cognitive dysfunction, spinal cord injuries, seizure disorders or other neuromuscular disorders)
• Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities
• Healthcare personnel
• Household contacts and caregivers of children up to 5 years of age, and adults 50 years and older
• Household contacts (including children) and caregivers of persons with medical conditions that put them at higher risk for severe complications from influenza

Take Care Clinics^SM offer the flu shot for patients ages 2 and older

Who should not get a flu shot?

Certain individuals should not be vaccinated without first consulting a healthcare professional. These patients include:

• Those with a severe allergy to chicken eggs
• Those with allergies to certain medications and preservatives, including certain antibiotics and Thimerosal (preservative)
• Those who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination in the past
• Those who have had Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) within six weeks of getting the flu vaccine previously
• Those who have a moderate or severe illness with a fever should wait until they recover before getting a flu shot

How is the flu shot administered?

The flu shot is a single dose by injection under the skin and is administered every year beginning in August. The vaccine takes effect two weeks after it has been administered as antibodies accumulate and provide protection against influenza. Therefore, you may be susceptible to influenza, just as are individuals who have not received the vaccination during the two weeks that follow your flu shot.