The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to hospitalization or even death. Every year in the United States, an average of 5% to 20% of the population gets the seasonal flu. Some people, such as older people, young children and those with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.

 

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. According to the CDC, flu shots lessen the chance of getting the flu by at least 70 percent. 

 

How well the flu vaccine protects a person depends on how similar or matched the virus strains of the vaccine are to the viruses in circulation, and on the age and health of the person getting the vaccine. 

 

The vaccine changes each year based on international surveillance of circulating viruses by the World Health Organization. Using the WHO recommendations, the FDA identifies three strains of influenza viruses for manufacturers to include in the United States version of the vaccine. The 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against an influenza A H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus, and the 2009 H1N1 virus.   

 

Last year the H1N1 strain was identified as problematic after the seasonal vaccine production had begun. An additional vaccine was produced that only contained the H1N1 virus. This year the H1N1 is included in the seasonal vaccine. Many people have called this year’s vaccine “all in one”. 

 

The flu shot (also called inactivated influenza vaccine) cannot give you the flu. It is comprised of killed viruses. Most people generally do not experience any side effects from the flu shot. When they do occur, they are usually mild.

 

To schedule an appointment for the seasonal flu vaccine, please contact the store and ask about our flu vaccine clinics.   

 

If you have additional questions about the seasonal flu or would like more information, please contact Travis Holshouser or Jennifer Church.