The CDC wants everyone to know that the best way to avoid the flu is to get vaccinated. Let's clear up some questions you may have about the flu vaccine.
How old does one have to be to receive a vaccine? Can my small children get one:
Anyone over 6 months of age can receive a flu vaccine. So yes it is highly recommended your small children get one!
I got a flu vaccine last year, do I have to get another this year?
Yes. Each year the vaccine is updated so that it provides the best protection for the current flu strains. It will actually protect against the top 3 most threatening strains of the season. If you got the H1N1 vaccine last year you still need a flu shot this year.
Should I wait till the flu begins to appear in my area to get a vaccine so that I am protected right when it hits?
No. Getting a vaccine early in the season will leave you protected all season long. Its better to receive the vaccine before outbreaks strike in your area.
I am pregnant, can I get the flu vaccine?
Yes, you can. Ask your Ob/Gyn provider their recommendations. Mine waits till the end of the first trimester and then routinely give you the vaccine if you are pregnant or delivering during the flu season.
Where can I get a flu vaccine?
You can receive them at your Dr's office, the health department, various clinics set up in your area, and drugstores like Walgreens and Rite Aid. In our area they even do drive thru clinics at places like the fairgrounds. You never even leave your car. Just roll down your window when its your turn and push up your sleeve!
What if you just can't stand the thought of having your child vaccinated? If your stomach turns at the thought of them wailing in pain? What if you have one of those children that it takes a team of medical personnel to restrain them for a single shot? There is a great option available. The Flu Mist is a form that can be sniffed up through the nose, no needles required. Children do have to be old enough to sniff sufficiently in order to use this form. My children's Pediatrician will administer it to children 3 and older. We have used this option often for our household.
What else can you do to avoid illness? Hand washing is a must. PROPER hand washing, I should say. That involves more than a quick rinse rinse dry dry. You have to thoroughly soap up and rinse with warm water. Teach children to avoid touching their noses, eyes and mouths. Have your children wash their school desks, lockers etc regularly to clean and disinfect the surfaces. Avoid routine Dr office visits during peak flu season in your area. If you can't avoid them, schedule your visit during a time they are apt to be least busy. Take plenty of hand sanitizer with you and avoid touching surfaces. Good nutrition and proper rest is another way to keep your body strong and avoid illness of all sorts.
Children can be especially vulnerable during the flu season. So can the elderly. Make sure you check with your parents, grandparents or any other person you care about to make sure they were able to get a vaccine. Help them arrange to get one if they have not.
If you would like more information on the Flu or Flu vaccines you can use the following links:
More info: www.cdc.gov/flu, www.flu.gov
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CDC
Twitter: @cdcflu
Also, don't hesitate to ask your Dr!
So, although there is a lot to dread as our summer fades, lets all do our part to make sure the flu is something we can avoid all together. The time to get vaccinated is now!
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