By Sheila Kun RN, BSN, MS, CPN, FCCP This is our last discussion on the subject of influenza vaccination. As noted before, although the U.S. has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, only 45 percent of adults and 63 percent of children get flu shots each year. For some people, the question of its efficacy remains. We need to be aware that … Continue reading Flu Vaccine: Final Words on Influenza Vaccination (Abstracts from CDC)

By Sheila Kun RN, BSN, MS, CPN, FCCP Populations at Higher Risk for Medical Complications Attributable to Severe Influenza All persons aged ≥6 months who do not have contraindications should be vaccinated annually. However, vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for persons who are at increased risk for severe illness and complications from influenza and for influenza-related outpatient, emergency department, or hospital visits. When … Continue reading Flu Vaccine: Guidance for Use in Specific Populations and Situations (from CDC)

By Sheila Kun RN, BSN, MS, CPN, FCCP Balancing considerations regarding the unpredictability of timing of onset of the influenza season and concerns that vaccine-induced immunity might wane over the course of a season, it is recommended that vaccination should be offered by the end of October. Children aged 6 months through 8 years who require 2 doses should receive their first dose as soon … Continue reading Timing of Vaccination (From CDC )

By Sheila Kun RN, BSN, MS, CPN, FCCP Most of us have been taking flu shots for years. Others might be resistant to the idea of getting a flu shot because “it doesn’t work”, or “I am pretty healthy, I never get sick”. That is why I feel it is worthwhile to spend some time on this topic so that we know what we are … Continue reading Interesting Facts from the CDC (Center of Disease Control) on Influenza Prevention