Current Concerns:

THE FLU

The leaves are changing, it’s getting dark earlier and soon snowflakes will be falling. Which mean the 5^th season of the year  – FLU season is upon us. The Flu season officially starts in late Fall and continues into early Spring. So what’s the scoop this year on getting your flu vaccine after last year’s big H1N1 scare? You need another flu shot this year, but the good news is that it’s easier to protect yourself.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration made a recommendation in February 2010 that the H1N1 flu vaccine be manufactured in combination with the seasonal flu vaccine for the 2010-2011 flu season.  The FDA did indeed approve this, which means the flu shot this year will combine protection from both the H1N1 virus (“swine flu”) and the anticipated 2010 seasonal flu strain.

Who needs a FLU shot?

For the first time, the CDC is recommending that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot this year. Generally, anyone with a compromised immune system should protect themselves every flu season with a flu shot. This generally includes: pregnant woman, the elderly, anyone with a chronic condition like diabetes or asthma, anyone taking medications that suppress the immune system and anyone with HIV/AIDS, those under 9 yrs of age who have never received a flu vaccine.

If I get the shot, can I still get the FLU?

Even if you get the recommended flu vaccine, you may still get sick.

It is important to know that the flu shot has its limits as to how well it can protect you, and it may not completely shield you from getting the flu. However, that does not mean that it’s not important to your health for you to get the flu shot.

If you do get the flu shot and still end up getting sick, there is a benefit.  The flu vaccine makes it less severe, so you will have less debilitating symptoms and you will be back on your feet quicker.

Of course, consistent hand washing and avoiding contact with the sick are also very important in warding off the flu.