National Influenza Vaccination Week

Posted by Carolyn Martin on December 1st, 2016 Posted in: Health Literacy, Health Observances, Public Health

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What is the best way to reduce the risk of the flu? That’s right, getting the flu vaccine is the easiest and best way to prevent the flu and its complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) everyone 6 months and older should receive an annual flu shot. Some people are at greater risk of flu related complications than others. This includes children younger than age 5 and adults 65 and older. Those who have certain medical conditions such as heart disease, liver disease, and blood disorders. Go to the CDC to see the full list of ages and health issues of those who are at increased risks.

Of course there are those who should not receive the flu shot or may be eligible to receive an alternative protection option. These include children younger than 6 months and those who are severely allergic to ingredients in the vaccine. A physician should be consulted for those who have had Guillain-Barre Syndrome, may be allergic to eggs and other ingredients in the vaccine, and those who are feeling ill. The CDC has complete information regarding those who should not receive the flu shot or consider not having it.

The flu shot does not necessarily guarantee 100% protection from the flu but it does have a number of benefits. It may help keep symptoms milder than might otherwise be the case without the vaccine and possibly preventing health complications and the need for hospitalization. And even more importantly, getting the flu shot goes beyond yourself by protecting others who’s health may be more vulnerable to flu complications or who cannot receive the vaccine. These people depend on the rest of us to get our flu shots so that their chances of getting the flu and its serious complications are greatly reduced.

This year, December 4-10 is National Influenza Vaccination Week. If you haven’t done it already, take steps to see what you can do to prevent the flu to protect yourself and others. Learn more about the flu at http://www.flu.gov/