GET VACCINATED

Particularly important for those who are under 2 or over 64 or have a chronic condition making them at high risk for complications from flu. In addition, consider a flu shot if you are in regular contact with persons at risk of complications from flu or exposed to many people in confined settings where others may be coughing and sneezing.

Each year a new vaccine is created in anticipation of a certain strain. When the vaccine consists of strains that are similar to the ones that circulate, the vaccine is a good match and provides optimal protection. When the strain differs from the vaccine, effective rates will be impacted. In healthy young adults where the vaccine is a good match it will be approximately 70%-90% effective¹. Although the vaccine is less effective in populations over 65, it has been demonstrated to reduce the number of deaths and hospitalizations associated with influenza.

Discuss with your pediatrician whether to immunize your youngsters in daycare. One recent study found that families whose children in daycare were immunized had 42% fewer infections with fever than those whose children weren't immunized.

An interim recommendation has been issued by the CDC for the 2004-2005 Influenza Season. In light of limited vaccine availability, only those at risk of secondary complications and their care takers are being urged to get vaccinated. Healthy people are being asked to forgo or defer vaccination.

¹Source: CDC (MMWR, 28 May 2004, 53 (RR06) 1-40).

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