Inactivated Influenza Vaccine (Flu)
Why get vaccinated ?
Influenza (Flu) is contagious disease. It is caused by the influenza virus, which spreads from infected persons to the nose or throat of others. Other illness can have the same symptoms and are often mistaken for influenza. But only an illness caused by the influenza virus is really influenza.
Anyone can get influenza, but rates of infection are highest among children. For most people, it lasts only a few days. It can cause:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Headache
- Muscle aches
Some people get much sicker. Influenza can lead to pneumonia and can be dangerous for people with heart or breathing conditions. It can cause high fever and seizures in children. On average 226000 people are hospitalized every year because of influenza and 36000 die - mostly elderly.
There are 2 types of influenza vaccine:
Inactivated (killed) vaccine, or the "Flu Shot" is given by injection into the muscle.
Live, attenuated (weakened) influenza vaccine, called LAIV, separate Vaccine Information Statement.
For most people influenza vaccine prevents serious influenza-related illness. But it will not prevent "influenza-like" illnesses caused by other viruses.
Influenza viruses are always changing. Because of this, influenza vaccines are updated every year, and an annual vaccination is recommended. Protection lasts up to a year.
It takes up to 2 weeks for protection to develop after the vaccination. Some inactivated influenza vaccine contains thimerosal, a preservative that contains mercury. Some people believe thimerosal may be related to developmental problems in children. In 2004 the institute of Medicine published a report conducting that, based on scientific studies, there is no evidence of such a relationship. If you are concerned about thimerosal, ask your doctor about thimerosal-free influenza vaccine.
Who should get inactivated influenza vaccine?
People 6 months of age and older can receive inactivated influenza vaccine. It is recommended for anyone who is at risk of complications from influenza or more likely to require medical care:
- All children from 6 months up to 5 years of age
- Anyone 50 years of age or older
- Anyone 6 months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment.
- Women who will be pregnant during influenza season.
- Anyone with long-term health problems with heart disease, kidney problems, lung disease, Diabetes, asthma, anemia and other blood disorders.
- Anyone with a weakened immune system due to: HIV/AIDS, long term treatment with drugs such as steroids, cancer treatment with x-rays or drugs.
- Anyone with certain muscle or nerve disorders that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems.
When should i get influenza vaccine?
Plan to get influenza vaccine in October or November if you can. But getting vaccinated in December, or even later, will still be beneficial in most years.
What are the risks from inactivated influenza vaccine?
A Vaccine, like any medicine, could possibly cause serious problems, such as severe allergic reactions. The risk of a vaccine causing serious harm, or death, is extremely small.
Mild problems: Soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given, fever and aches.
If these problems occur, they usually begin soon after the shot and last 1-2 days.
How much is the cost of influenza vaccine?
It will be around 20-25$.
If you want to learn more: www.cdc.gov/flu
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