The Influenza Vaccine
The influenza vaccine (also called the flu vaccine) is an effective way to reduce both the complications and severity of the flu. Here are some common questions that we hear about the vaccine:
What
is influenza (flu)?
The flu is caused by a virus, which affects the nose, throat, and trachea/bronchi
(these are the tubes that connect the mouth to the lungs). The typical
symptoms include fever, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, and hacking
cough. Sometimes the symptoms may include muscle pain, headache, vomiting,
diarrhea, and fatigue.
The flu is typically seen in the US between December and April. There are many different strains of the flu in the community during each flu season. Also, the strains of the flu in our community are slightly different than the previous year. Thus, people can have the flu many times in their lifetime and perhaps more than once in a season.
Is a "cold"
different?
The common cold causes similar symptoms to the flu but is caused by different
viruses. Children with the flu tend to feel much worse, though colds can
also make children feel miserable.
How is
the vaccine made?
Since there are different strains of the flu in the community each year,
a new vaccine has to be developed every year. Each spring, scientists
predict which strains will be present in our country the upcoming winter.
Usually three virus strains are included in the vaccine.
The flu vaccine contains killed virus particles (inactivated). Thus, the vaccine CAN NOT cause the flu!
Who should
get the vaccine?
As of 2006, it is recommended that all children between 6-59 months of
age receive the flu vaccine. Also, anyone living in a house with a child
under 5 years of age should also receive the vaccine. In addition, there
are certain children with health problems who have an increased risk of
having complications from the flu. In order to reduce this risk, it is
recommended that they (and everyone in their household) receive the vaccine
every year. These children include those with:
- Lung disease
(including asthma, reactive airway disease, recurrent bronchitis or pneumonia,
cystic fibrosis)
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Metabolic disorders
- Blood diseases (including sickle cell disease)
- Cancer
- Immune problems
- If on long term aspirin therapy (such as for arthritis or Kawasaki disease)
The flu vaccine can be given to children 6 months old and older. If you have any questions whether your child should receive the flu vaccine every year, please discuss it with your practitioner.
When should
the vaccine be given?
The vaccine should be given every fall, usually between mid/late October
and Thanksgiving. It
consists of a single shot unless your child is under 9 years old and receiving
his/her first flu vaccine. In this case, two doses are given one month
apart.
How long
does the vaccine provide protection?
The vaccine requires at least 2 weeks before it provides protection against
the flu. Maximal protection probably lasts at least 6 months. Even with
the vaccine, it is possible to get the flu, but it will be a more mild
case.
The vaccine does not provide protection from the many other viruses present during the winter which cause the common cold.
Is there anything new?
Yes, we now offer Flumist. This is a live virus, nasal spray flu vaccine (no needles!). It is offered to children 5 years or older who have no chronic health issues. Please ask your practitioner or contact our office regarding its availability.
If you have any questions, please discuss it with our practitioners or our staff.