No Flu vaccination shortage is anticipated this year, and all FCN offices should have an adequate supply of needed vaccine for our patients. This year, anyone over the age of six months who wants to prevent the flu will be able to get vaccinated! Flu season typically peaks in February or March, and FCN doctors recommended waiting to get vaccinations until October this year. When vaccine is administered too early, the protective effect may wane before flu season hits!
High priority populations still have the greatest need for protection. This includes those over age 65, people with chronic illness or pulmonary disease, health care workers and those in contact with the public on a regular basis.
One key to providing the best community protection against influenza is vaccinating as many children as possible. "Research has shown that children are huge reservoirs and spreaders of influenza, and young children are at high risk for complications from the flu," according to Dr. Hayes, of the Washington State Department of Health. "It's important to protect them and everyone they come in contact with by making sure high risk children and children who are household contacts or caregivers of anyone in a high risk group are vaccinated. There is plenty of childhood flu vaccine around the state."
Please remember to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses by covering your coughs and washing your hands before touching your own face, eating, or caring for others.