New flu vaccines are developed each year to combat influenza. The strains of flu used to make the vaccine are based on projections of the disease for that year.
There are two ways to receive vaccination against the flu. The first method of administration is an injection which contains an inactive vaccine. The injection is safe for use in people age 6 months and older. The second method is a nasal mist which contains an active but weakened form of the virus. The nasal mist is only approved to be used in people age 2 to 49, and not if you are pregnant due to the live virus.
Who should get the Flu Vaccination?
Vaccination against influenza is recommended for people who are at high risk of serious health complications if they were to contract the flu.
People who are strongly encouraged to receive the flu vaccine include:
- Everyone age 50 or above
- Children over 6 months of age and adults who have any form of chronic heart or lung condition such as asthma
- Anyone who has weakened immune systems or have metabolic disease or disorders
- Women who will be in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy during flu season
- Health care professionals and those who work in health care settings
- Residents of nursing homes
- All members of the household where a high risk person lives
- Children age 6 months to 18 years who are on Aspirin therapy
How the Flu Vaccination Works
By receiving an inactive or weak strain of the influenza virus our bodies produce antibodies against it. This reaction is the same way your body would react if you naturally contracted the virus. These antibodies protect you from getting a full blown case of influenza if you are exposed.
It takes approximately two weeks for the antibodies to develop after receiving the vaccination. You are at risk during those two weeks of getting full blown influenza if exposed. It is important to get the vaccination as soon as possible prior to flu season and to avoid exposure during the few weeks after getting vaccinated.
Children who are age 9 years and below who are getting the influenza vaccine for the very first time require a second dose of the vaccine four weeks following the initial dose.
Risks and Side Effects of the Flu Vaccination
Many people who are at risk for complications of influenza make the choice to not be vaccinated because they are concerned of side effects. Typically the side effects of the flu vaccine are localized redness and soreness at the site of injection, muscle aches and fever. Contrary to myth, you cannot get the flu from the flu vaccination.
Allergic reaction to the flu shot is rare but do occur. You should not receive the flu vaccination if you are allergic to eggs, if you have ever had an allergic reaction to the vaccine or if you have developed Guillain-Barre syndrome within 6 weeks of getting a previous flu shot. If you have a latex allergy you should discuss the flu shot with your physician before you take it, the mist may be the choice for you.
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