Fall weather means that we’re headed into flu season. The CDC recommends everyone (6 months of age and older) should receive a seasonal influenza vaccination. Flu caused the deaths of nearly 80,000 people in 2017 in the US alone. Vaccination to prevent flu is particularly important for people who are at high risk of developing serious flu complications.
The flu attacks the lungs, nose, and throat. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic disease or weak immune systems are at high risk. Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue. The flu is treated primarily with rest and fluid to let the body fight the infection on its own. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers may help with symptoms. An annual vaccine can help prevent the flu and limit its complications.
People who can get the flu shot:
- Different flu shots are approved for people of different ages. Everyone should get a vaccine that is appropriate for their age.
- There are inactivated influenza vaccines that are approved for people as young as 6 months of age.
- Some vaccines are only approved for adults. For example, the recombinant influenza vaccine is for people aged 18 years and older, and the adjuvanted and high-dose inactivated vaccines are for people aged 65 years and older.
- Flu shots are recommended for pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions.
People who SHOULD NOT get the flu shot:
- Children younger than 6 months of age are too young to get a flu shot.
- People with severe, life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine. This might include gelatin, antibiotics, or other ingredients. See Special Considerations Regarding Egg Allergy for more information about egg allergies and flu vaccine.
Star Valley Health will be offering the Flu Shot as of October 1st at all locations.
Afton Clinic: 307-885-5852 and Afton Urgent Care: 307-885-5700
Thayne Clinic: 307-883-5852
Alpine Clinic: 307-654-5852 and Alpine Urgent Care: 307-654-5700
https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/should-you-take-an-antiviral-drug-when-you-get-the-flu