Did you get your flu shot yet?

NEW CDC GUIDELINES:  The Flu Shot is recommended for anyone over the age of 6 months.

This year's vaccine combines 2 seasonal flu strains and the H1N1 strain.

In general, the Influenza vaccine is recommended for:

• Anyone who is at risk of complications from Influenza or more likely to require medical care
• Anyone who lives with or cares for people at high risk for Influenza related complications
• People who provide essential community services.
• People living in dormitories or under other crowded conditions, to prevent outbreaks
• People at high risk of Influenza complications who travel to the Southern hemisphere between April and September or to the tropics or in organized tourist groups at any time
• Anyone who wants to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with Influenza or spreading Influenza to others. 

Plan to get the Influenza vaccine in October or November if you can. Getting vaccinated in December, or even later, will still be beneficial in most years. You can get the vaccine as soon as it is available, and for as long as illness is occurring. In the northern hemisphere, Influenza illness can occur any time from November through May. Most cases usually occur in January or February. Most people need one dose of Influenza vaccine each year.

Children younger than 9 years of age getting Influenza vaccine for the first time should get 2 doses. For inactivated vaccine, these doses should be given at least 4 weeks apart. Influenza vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines, including Pneumococcal vaccine.


Have more Influenza questions?  Ask them in the comment section below or contact your nearest Passport Health location.