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| November 2012 Flu News |
 There is still time to get vaccinated against the flu
Flu activity on the rise; widespread activity reported in 48 states
Influenza is serious and this year’s flu season is off and running earlier than usual. The good news is that there is still time to get vaccinated. In fact, as long as the influenza virus is circulating, it is beneficial to get immunized.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 48 states have already reported widespread influenza activity. This influenza season, activity began relatively early compared to most recent seasons, with flu activity starting to pick up nationwide in December and January.
Influenza severity also varies each year. So far this season, there have been 37 influenza-associated pediatric deaths a higher number, at this time, than many recent years. However, the biggest risk, according to the CDC, may be to people 65 years and older.
Seasonal flu can be very serious, even deadly for seniors - adults 65 years and older. Our immune systems weaken as we age, which makes seniors more susceptible to the flu. In fact, ninety percent of flu-related deaths and more than half of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people age 65 and older, making it particularly important that all seniors get the flu vaccine.
Because seniors are at an increased risk of getting pneumonia, a complication of the flu, they should also talk to their health care provider about the pneumococcal vaccine.
Depending on virus severity each influenza season, total deaths can range from 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people. In addition, each year in the U.S., on average, influenza and its related complications result in approximately 226,000 hospitalizations.
The CDC recommends vaccination for everyone in the U.S. 6 months of age and older. Parents also need to know that children 6 months through 8 years of age who are getting a flu shot for the first time need to receive two doses approximately one month apart for optimal protection. After immunization, it takes about two weeks for the vaccine to help protect against the virus.
Influenza vaccination is safe and effective, and health officials have determined that this year’s vaccine is a good match for the influenza strains circulating. With vaccination options available for every age group—children, adults and seniors—people should talk with their health care provider or pharmacist to find the option that’s right for them and their families this season.
For more information about influenza and the importance of annual vaccination, visit www.facesofinfluenza.org.
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When Should I Get Vaccinated?
Vaccination is safe and effective, and the best way to help prevent influenza. The influenza vaccine is available now and throughout the flu season, so there is still time to get vaccinated if you have not yet received your flu shot.
Immunization is beneficial and recommended well into the winter and spring. This is because in most seasons, influenza activity doesn’t peak until February or March.
In fact, as long as influenza viruses are in circulation, it’s a good idea to get vaccinated. It only takes about two weeks for the vaccine to help protect against the virus. Now is the time to get vaccinated.
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© 2013 American Lung Association
