Humana Health Watch Transcript Archive

October 25

Flu Vaccinations

Flu shots are usually available in October so we’re prepared by the time flu season gets here in December. But this year’s delay means that the vaccine won’t be available until the flu season has already begun, and some people may be exposed to the flu before they get a chance to get vaccinated.

For most people the flu means laying low for about a week, but for the elderly and people with chronic diseases, it could mean a serious, even fatal infection like pneumonia. That’s why the government says that flu shots should only go to those at highest risk first. Those groups are:

Persons aged 65 years or older

Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities

Adults and children with lung or heart conditions

Adults and children with chronic diseases that affect the immune system, such as diabetes, kidney disease and HIV or aids

Children and teenagers who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and thus are at risk for Reyes syndrome if infected with the flu

Women who will be in the second or third trimester of pregnancy

Health care workers

The first shipments of the vaccine should be available by the beginning of November in many areas. Officials also want the public to know that even though there is a delay, they do not anticipate a shortage, and everyone who wants a vaccine should be able to get it, but just later than usual this year.

Is it ever too late to be vaccinated?

The flu season lasts until March, so, if the vaccine is available, get it, especially if you’re in on of the high risk groups, or you’re living with a high risk individual.

REFERENCE:

Update: Flu Vaccine Supply
Centers for Disease Control
www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/pressrel/r2k1006.htm

October 25
Flu Vaccinations
	Flu shots are usually available in October so we’re prepared by the time flu season gets here in December. But this year’s delay means that the vaccine won’t be available until the flu season has already begun, and some people may be exposed to the flu before they get a chance to get vaccinated. For most people the flu means laying low for about a week, but for the elderly and people with chronic diseases, it could mean a serious, even fatal infection like pneumonia. That’s why the government says that flu shots should only go to those at highest risk first. Those groups are: Persons aged 65 years or older Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities Adults and children with lung or heart conditions Adults and children with chronic diseases that affect the immune system, such as diabetes, kidney disease and HIV or aids Children and teenagers who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and thus are at risk for Reyes syndrome if infected with the flu Women who will be in the second or third trimester of pregnancy Health care workers The first shipments of the vaccine should be available by the beginning of November in many areas. Officials also want the public to know that even though there is a delay, they do not anticipate a shortage, and everyone who wants a vaccine should be able to get it, but just later than usual this year.

	Is it ever too late to be vaccinated? The flu season lasts until March, so, if the vaccine is available, get it, especially if you’re in on of the high risk groups, or you’re living with a high risk individual.
	REFERENCE: Update: Flu Vaccine Supply Centers for Disease Control www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/pressrel/r2k1006.htm