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It’s time for the flu vaccine, which should I get?
By Christina | October 17, 2007
Here it is, flu season again and this year the shelves are stocked and ready to provide each person with the protection they need against influenza, or the flu. There are two types of flu vaccinations, each has a different method of administering, side effects and people who are approved for it. There are also people who should not get vaccinated at all. Read all the facts here to make your best, educated decision.
The flu “shot” contains a dead virus and is approved for infants over 6 months of age, healthy people and people with chronic medical conditions. The nasal spray flu vaccine is made with a live, weakened flu virus that does not cause the flu, this method of vaccination is for healthy 2 – 49 year olds who are not pregnant. In general, each of these methods provides protection after two weeks from the date of innoculation.
Priority groups who should be vaccinated are:
- Children ages 6 months to 5 years of age
- Pregnant women
- People over age 50
- People with chronic medical conditions
- People who live in nursing homes and other living facilities
People who should not be vaccinated are:
- Those with severe allergies to chicken eggs
- Those who have had bad reactions to the flu shot in the past
- Children under the age of 6 months
- People who are sick with a fever
Things to expect after the injection vaccination:
- Soreness, redness at point of injection
- Low grade fever
- Aches
Things to expect after the nasal vaccination:
- Runny nose
- Headache
- Sore Throat
- Cough
An informed, educated decision is always best. Good luck through this year’s flu season.
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