Savvy Senior: How to get flu vaccines designed specifically for seniors
The U.S. DHHS recommends people who are not feeling well not get the vaccine, as well as those with severe, life-threatening allergies or anyone who has ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
Researchers found that of almost 9,000 USA kids, those who’d received certain alternative therapies were one-quarter to 39 percent less likely to have gotten a flu shot in the past year. “I’m proud we are number one and I hope this year we can surpass 57 percent”.
“Getting the seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce the chances that you will get the seasonal flu and spread it to others”, said Witte.
Registered Nurse Vickie Solis, the coordinator of associate health services at St. Mary’s Hospital, urges people to get vaccinated even if they might have a fear of needles.
The flu vaccine is available every year to protect adults (and some children) at risk of flu and its complications.
An annual flu shot is a priority for the Marotta family. “Our department also offers the vaccine to both uninsured and insured adults and children”.
The CDC is now recommending that all seniors, 65 or older, get two vaccinations - Prevnar 13 and Pneumovax 23.
It’s that time of year again - the start of flu season.
Based on expert recommendations, MidMichigan Health will not be offering the nasal spray version of the flu vaccine this season, but will still be offering injectable flu vaccines.
“Flu shots are available now and people should not wait to be vaccinated”, said Dr. Lisa Esolen, director of infection prevention and control for Geisinger Health System.
What Kind of Flu Shot Should You Get? “The flu vaccine can not give you the flu as it does not contain any live flu virus and all those at risk should get vaccinated as soon as possible this year to make sure that they are protected” she concluded.
“We also want to remind folks to take steps to prevent not just the flu, but other germs we see in the wintertime by covering their coughs and sneezes, washing their hands often, and not sharing food or utensils with others who are sick”, Palmer said.
“Flu is tricky because you can feel mildly ill in the beginning and all of a sudden you crash”, said Schaffner. Real flu can be debilitating and if you are already living with a condition either very young or very old it can hit you harder.