Time to get your flu shot.

Influenza (the flu) is a respiratory illness that happens every year usually from late Fall to early Spring.  It is caused by a group of influenza viruses.  It typically causes high fever, respiratory symptoms, and body aches.  At highest risk are the very young, the very old, pregnant and those with lung or heart problems.  The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated.

The "flu shot" contains killed virus that is injected in the arm or leg. The flu shot is approved for use in people older than 6 months. The CDC directs that "children less than nine years of age being vaccinated for the first time should receive two doses of influenza vaccine, spaced at least 4 weeks apart in the initial year."  The following year they should receive only one dose.

The "flu mist" is a weakened virus that is given in a nasal - spray.  My children call it "sniff up".  The weakened virus grows only in the cold and may cause a small amount of nasal congestion for about 2 days.  The vaccine is approved for healthy individuals ages 2-49 years.  Women who are pregnant or people with asthma or other lung or heart problems should not get the "flu mist".

Who does the CDC say should not get vaccinated?

• People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs (it is made in eggs).
• People who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination.
• People who developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting an influenza vaccine.
• Children less than 6 months of age (influenza vaccine is not approved for this age group), and
• People who have a moderate-to-severe illness with a fever (they should wait until they recover to get vaccinated.)

 I think I have the flu,  what should I do now?  If you or your child have symptoms of high fever, runny nose, cough, and body aches you may want to see your doctor.  Your doctor may prescribe Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) or another antiviral medicine to help shorten the illness.  What should you watch for?  If  your child is not drinking well or is having trouble breathing you should seek medical care immediately.

Do not give aspirin containing products to children with the flu. It can result in Reye's syndrome which is a potentially fatal liver disease.

The best treatment is prevention.  A small poke can save you weeks of frustration and may prevent serious illness.

For more information online goto www.cdc.gov/flu .

This article is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice.  Please speak with  your physician if you have questions about your specific situation.