Flu shots: plenty and powerful; get yours
By David P. Norton, M.D.
Whether through complacency brought on by previously mild flu seasons, or confusion about the supply of vaccine, the demand for flu shots has fallen short of supply in the last few years. As a result, many people needlessly became sick, and millions of doses of unused vaccine were destroyed.
For this flu season, the Centers for Disease Control has announced that up to 132 million doses vaccine will be available, 10 million more than last year and the most the country has ever had available. That's the good news.
The bad news is that only a fraction of the people most at-risk get immunized. CDC's research found that only one-third of 50-64-year-olds, 30 percent of high-risk young adults, and 21 percent of children 6 months to 2 years were getting vaccinated. Further, of those children who needed two doses, only about 10 percent received both. Also, it's recommended that all pregnant women receive influenza vaccine, yet CDC estimates only 13 percent may be getting vaccinated. Seniors 65 and older, who get free shots through Medicare, were the most likely to get immunized, at 69 percent, yet that's still far below the national goal of 90 percent for that age group. (The figures are from the 2005-2006 flu season.)
The effects of the flu shouldn't be minimized. The flu annually affects 5 to 20 percent of the population, claims 36,000 lives, and puts another 200,000 in hospitals. It can be particularly severe for those with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and congestive heart failure. Lost work time and added hospitalization and health care costs add to the huge impact of this infectious disease.
This year CDC and public health officials are urging vaccinations not just for at-risk populations, but for anyone who wants to avoid getting sick. Everyone who is eligible to get a shot should get vaccinated, especially those in high-risk categories, like children and the elderly. Vaccine is available by shot or the nasal spray, FluMist. Previously restricted to people ages 5-49 years old, FluMist has now been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for children as young as 2. And a new vaccine, Afluria, has just been approved by the FDA for those 18 and older.
The best time to get vaccinated is October or November, although December or later is also advisable, as the flu season can last through May. Be aware that some people should not be vaccinated -- children under 6 months of age, people with egg allergies, for example -- so check with your doctor first.
For added prevention, take these common sense steps:
Practice good hygiene by washing your hands often or use an alcohol gel or hand rub, particularly if you've been out or around people with colds or flu. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth; these are gateways for germs into your body.
Control coughing and sneezing by covering your mouth for both and never do either in the direction of someone else. These are primary ways that flu viruses spread.
Be cautious with young and old as children and the elderly are highly vulnerable to getting the flu. Parents should keep children home if they are ill, and refrain from holding or kissing your children if you think you're getting sick.
Don't share items that can spread germs and viruses, like straws, drinking cups, glasses or bottles.
Detailed information on the flu, including who is considered high-risk, is available from the State Department of Public Health online at www.mass.gov/dph or by telephone toll-free at 866-627-7968. CDC also has extensive information at www.cdc.gov/flu. And the Massachusetts Medical Society offers educational materials on hand-washing - the best way to stop the spread of infection, online at www.massmed.org/wash_hands.
Vaccines are one of the miracles of medicine, and we should take every opportunity to use these powerful preventive measures. It's a proven, easy way to protect our personal health, as well as our public health.
David P. Norton, M.D., is chair of the Public Health Committee of the Massachusetts Medical Society and a pediatrician with Holyoke Pediatric Associates. Physician Focus is a public service of the Massachusetts Medical Society. Readers should use their own judgment when seeking medical care and consult with their physician for treatment. Send comments to PhysicianFocus@mms.org.
|
|
