Flu Vaccination Urged for Everyone Over Six Months

Now is the time to get your 2011-2012 flu shot.

“Some people are wondering if they need to get a flu shot again this year if they had one last year,” Douglas County Health Director Dr. Adi Pour said. “The answer is absolutely ‘Yes!’”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is once again recommending everyone over six months of age be immunized as soon as possible against the seasonal influenza. Yearly vaccinations are recommended by the CDC to ensure people have the best protection each fall through spring. Since it takes up to two weeks before the vaccine can provide any immunity, it is advisable to get your flu shot as soon as possible.

             It is strongly recommended that pregnant women be vaccinated against the flu. According to the CDC, the flu is more likely to cause severe illness in pregnant women than in women who are not pregnant. Changes in the immune system, heart, and lungs during pregnancy make pregnant women more prone to severe illness from flu, including hospitalizations and death. A flu shot for everyone in the household also protects infants who cannot be vaccinated until they are six months old.

            “You also can protect yourself and others from the flu by covering your mouth when you cough, washing your hands, and staying away from people who are sick,” Dr. Pour said. “It also is best to stay home from work or school if you are sick.”

             Pregnant women with flu-like symptoms should call their doctor immediately. Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue are examples of flu symptoms. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur in some cases.  However, it is possible for people to be infected with the flu and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

            People 65 years of age and over also are at risk for complications from the flu and are encouraged to get a flu shot. This year they have two choices: a vaccine with a regular dose and a second vaccine with a higher dose of the flu vaccine. Anyone 65 years of age or older is encouraged to quickly seek medical advice if they have flu-like symptoms.

            The 2011-2012 seasonal flu vaccine is available at doctor’s offices and pharmacies throughout Douglas County, and contains protection against the strain of H1N1 that caused the 2009 pandemic.  It is anticipated that that more than 160 million doses will be produced, which is expected to be enough for everyone who wants to be vaccinated.