An apple a day keeps the doctor away. But, does the same apply for good ol’ flu season? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 200,000 people (5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population) are hospitalized for flu-related complications like bronchitis and pneumonia. Those at high risk of such complications include pregnant women, children under 5 (but especially children under 2), as well as, men and women 65-years and older. Others at high risk include individuals battling medical conditions such as asthma, heart disease, liver and kidney disorders, among other things.
According to the CDC’s 2016-2017 influenza season FAQs, new things to be aware of include:
- Only injectable flu shots are recommended this season.
- Flu vaccines have been updated to better match circulating viruses.
- There will be some new vaccines on the market this season.
- The recommendations for vaccination of people with egg allergies have changed.
Who Should Not Get A Flu Shot
Individuals who should NOT get a flu shot are as follows, reports the CDC:
- Children younger than 6 months old
- People with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or any of its ingredients
- Note: There are certain flu shots that have different age indications. For example, people younger than 65 years of age should not get the high-dose flu shot and people who are younger than 18 years old or older than 64 years old should not get the intradermal flu shot.
People who should talk to their doctor before getting a flu shot:
- People who have an allergy to eggs or other vaccine ingredients
- People who have ever had Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
- People who are feeling ill
So how does one protect themselves during the dreaded flu season? Whether you decide to vaccinate or not, check out these 5 ways to survive cold and flu season: