The next flu season is just across the corner

Although the H1N1 influenza pandemic has been officially declared over (you’ll be able to read the statement from the World Health Organization Here), it is not too early to start out interested by the upcoming 2010-2011 flu season. In fact, on a recent visit to our local pharmacy, I noticed an indication that said, “Flu Vaccines Available Here.” Hmmm… there is a difference between a and – is it really time to get vaccinated?

Here’s what I discovered:

• The 2010–11 influenza vaccine will protect against three influenza viruses: H3N2 virus, influenza B virus, and H1N1 virus.
• Routine influenza vaccination is really useful for all individuals aged 6 months and over.
• As before, all children aged 6 months to eight years receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine for the primary time should receive 2 doses.
• During the 2010–11 season, children aged 6 months to eight years who haven’t received at the very least 1 dose of monovalent influenza A (H1N1) 2009 vaccine should receive 2 doses of the 2010–11 seasonal influenza vaccine.
• And finally, yes… the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is encouraging health care providers to start vaccinating patients as soon because the vaccine arrives (shipments have already begun).

You may remember from an earlier post that I never got a flu shot, nor did I get the H1N1 shot throughout the 2009-2010 season. The reason was simply convenience, or relatively, inconvenience. The vaccines weren’t available after I went to the doctor, after which there weren’t enough staff to manage them after they were available.

I plan to get vaccinated this 12 months. What about you?

References:

The American Academy of Pediatrics Online Red Book Influenza Resource Page

2010 Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Recommendations