Influenza VaccinationsWhat You Need to Know

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When should you get vaccinated?

The timing of flu seasons can vary

but activity usually begins to increase

in October.

Get your vaccination now so that your immune

system is fully protected.

Who should get vaccinated?The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6

months and older have a yearly flu vaccine with rare

exceptions.

Your physician can advise you on

whether the vaccine is contraindicated for

you based on your medical history.

Does it matter which type of vaccination method my child receives?

For the 2014-2015 Influenza Season,

the intranasal vaccine is the

preferred method for healthy

children aged 2-8 years.

There are some exceptions.

Which children should receive the injectable vaccine instead?

• Children aged 2-4 years who have had asthma or wheezing during the past 12 months;

• Children who have immunosuppression;

• Children with a history of egg allergy;

• Children who are receiving aspirin therapy or are taking medications that contain aspirin; and

• Children who have taken influenza antiviral medications (for example, Tamiflu® or Relenza®) within the past 48 hours.

Is it correct that my child may need two doses?In some cases, two doses

are indicated: Children aged 6 months to

8 years who have never been vaccinated against influenza, will require two

doses of influenza vaccine, administered at least 4

weeks apart.

Children aged 6 months through 8 years need only

one dose of vaccine in 2014-2015 if they received one or more doses of 2013-

2014 seasonal influenza vaccine.

What is the difference between the trivalent and quadrivalent formulations?

Trivalent flu vaccines are formulated to

protect against three flu viruses, and quadrivalent

flu vaccines protect against four flu viruses.

Is one better than the other?

The CDC has not expressed a

preference between trivalent and quadrivalent

vaccine.

Don't delay vaccination if the

quadrivalent vaccine is not

available.

Are there different vaccines for those 65 and older?

For people aged 65 years or older, two flu injections are available to choose from: a regular-dose flu vaccine and a high-dose flu

vaccine.

Is the Fluzone® High-Dose influenza vaccine better?

It is approved specifically for people aged 65 years or

older and contains four times the amount of antigen contained in regular flu injections.

Clinical trials have indicated

that a higher dose of antigen in the vaccine

prompts a better immune response in older people.

At this time, the CDC has

not stated a preference for either vaccine.

What other things can I do to help prevent the flu?

You can help prevent the spread of the flu and other respiratory illnesses by: • Covering your mouth

when you cough• Frequently washing

your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds (that’s about the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice).

Where can I find more information on Influenza?

The CDC has a comprehensive

resources page. Go to:

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/ind

ex.htm

Dr. Ernie wishes you a flu-free season!