INFLUENZA VACCINE

Since it is getting to that time of the year when we need to think about getting a flu vaccine, you may be asking yourself, how can I learn more about the vaccine. Here are some questions answered by the CDC in a recent vaccine information statement. Flu season is swiftly approaching and you may be asking yourself whether or not you should get a flu shot. Here is some information regarding the flu vaccine as printed by the CDC in a recent vaccine information statement.

Influenza is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus. The highest rate of infection is among children. Influenza can cause fever and seizures in children and can be dangerous for those anyone with breathing and/or heart conditions.

There are two types of influenza vaccines-
1. Live, attenuated influenza vaccine is sprayed into the nostrils and contains live, but weakened influenza virus.
2. Inactivated influenza vaccine is given by injection and is what we commonly call the flu shot.

Annual vaccination is recommended because viruses are always changing and the vaccines are updated every year. It takes 2 weeks to develop protection after vaccination.

Live attenuated influenza vaccine is approved for healthy people from 5 through 49 years of age, who are not pregnant. If you come in close contact, through work or family, with someone who has a severely weakened immune system, the inactivated influenza vaccine is preferred.

The following people should check with their physician about getting the inactivated vaccine (flu shot) -
• Adults 50 years of age and older
• Children 6 months up to 5 years
• Anyone with a weakened immune system
• Pregnant women
• Anyone with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome
• Children or adolescents on long-term aspirin treatment
• Those with long term health problems such as heart, kidney, and lung disease, asthma, blood disorders, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes

Anyone who has ever had a serious allergic reaction to eggs or a previous influenza vaccine or who is moderately ill should talk with your doctor before getting either vaccine. 

The influenza season is from November through May. If you decide to get an influenza vaccine, plan on getting it in October or November. Even if you get your vaccination later, it is still beneficial.

Life-threatening allergic reactions from vaccines are very rare and they usually occur shortly after vaccination. Mild problems may include fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, headache and muscle aches, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea or sore throat.

The vaccines are monitored for unusual or severe problems. Severe problems may include weakness, dizziness, hives, hoarseness or wheezing, paleness or fast heart beat. If you have any of these symptoms following a vaccination, seek medical treatment right away.

Source: Vaccine Information Statement – Live, Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (7/16/07)
Published by the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control And Prevention