Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a contagious infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by the influenza virus. The best way to prevent the flu is to be vaccinated. Elaine Walker, PA-C, with UI Health Care−Wapello talks about the seasonal flu vaccination and Novel H1N1:
How is the flu spread?
The flu is spread by direct contact. If someone coughs or sneezes into their hand—you shake the hand—you can get it that way. It can be spread by kissing. It's also spread when someone coughs or sneezes and doesn't cover the cough or sneeze. Those droplets get spread through the air and you inhale.
Why is the flu common in the fall and winter months?
That is just when the virus particularly wants to spread. A lot of it has to do with the fact that we're indoors and we have more close contact with each other. We're not outside as much and we tend to spread it around ourselves.
Does someone who considers themselves healthy need to get the flu shot?
Absolutely! Everyone should get the flu shot. They should not only protect themselves from getting the flu, but also protect their loved ones, their family members, from getting the flu as well.
Who benefits from a flu vaccination? Does a healthy person need to be immunized for the flu?
Pretty much everybody. There are a few people who should not get the flu shot:
- Anyone who had an allergic reaction to the vaccine in the past,
- Anyone who is allergic to chicken eggs,
- Anyone who has had Guillain-Barré Syndrome in the past, and
- Anyone who comes into the clinic or QuickCare who currently has a fever. You should wait until the fever's gone to get the shot at that point.
Can the flu shot give you the flu?
No—it's not a live virus. If you get the shot and then you get the flu, you were exposed before you got the shot.
Will the seasonal flu shot also vaccinate me against the H1N1 virus?
Unfortunately no, H1N1 is a different virus. We are currently ramping up to administer that vaccine. It should be available the end of October.
Is the seasonal flu vaccine available now?
Yes. Schedule Your Flu Shot Now |
