Immunity against flu doom
I used to roll my eyes at flu season. Everybody always freaks out way to much for a tiny bug that can make you sick for a few days. Then came the year when I got the flu twice. TWICE. Does that even happen? Apparently. After that, I became an anti-flu crusader. I write about it often:
- Prevent getting the flu – use common sense.
- Don’t want to catch the flu? Try washing your hands.
- Swine flu shots given free of cost and hassles.
I swear those are funny columns, not super-serious, peer-reviewed papers on public health. Even though it’s still a little warm in Oklahoma, it’s time to start getting the flu shot this year. Here’s the skinny on shots from the Oklahoma City-County Health Department:
The Oklahoma City-County Health Department (OCCHD) will begin offering seasonal flu vaccinations next month. The 2010-2011 vaccine is formulated to provide protection against three strains of influenza that are expected to be circulating this year, including the H1N1 virus that caused last year’s pandemic. That means that people will need only one flu shot this year.
“The H1N1 pandemic demonstrated how dangerous the flu can be for people of all ages,” says OCCHD director Gary Cox. “Even healthy children and adults can become seriously ill with the flu. Getting a flu vaccination is the best way you can protect yourself, and help to protect your loved ones and your community at the same time.”
Flu vaccinations are now recommended for everyone over 6 months of age. People at high risk of serious complications from flu are especially encouraged to get the flu vaccine. Those at greater risk include pregnant women and anyone with asthma, diabetes or other chronic health conditions. Parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers, and anyone who lives with or cares for someone at high risk for complications should also get the vaccine.
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