Influenza Awareness and Prevention

Each year in the United States an average of 5 to 20 percent of the population is affected by the seasonal flu. 

 

Groups that are at high risk for serious flu complications include young children, older people and those with certain health conditions. 

 

The flu virus is spread mainly through coughs and sneezes, and it is possible for someone to pass on the virus before their own symptoms begin to occur.

 

The number one way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. The CDC notes that flu shots reduce the risk of becoming infected by at least 70 percent. 

 

The flu shot cannot cause the flu as it is comprised of dead strains of flu virus. Most people generally do not experience any side effects from the flu shot, and if they do it is usually mild.

 

A common myth associated with getting a flu vaccination is that the time of year you get it influences the effectiveness of the vaccine. This is not true, as the vaccine’s effectiveness is based on its formula, which is updated each year based on international surveillance of the most prominent strains of the virus by the World Health Organization (WHO). Using these recommendations, the FDA identifies three strains of influenza viruses for manufacturers to include in the U.S. version of the vaccine.

 

The updated version of the seasonal flu vaccine for 2011-2012 has been released. Our pharmacy has the vaccine in stock and our pharmacists can administer your flu shot.

 

If you have additional questions, would like information on flu prevention, or are interested in learning more about our upcoming flu clinics, please contact Brent Talley or Jim Thompson.