What about your family and friends?

Maybe you’re thinking “The flu? I’m willing to risk it.” Even though YOU may be willing to take the risk…what about the many other lives you touch?                   

Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that can be dangerous for people at risk of serious influenza-related complications. Besides recommending influenza vaccination for high-risk people, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommend influenza vaccination for people who can transmit influenza to those at high risk for complications, such as those who live with or care for children 0–59 months old or a person with chronic heart or lung disease, persons aged 50 years or older, and healthcare workers.

Among the other groups the CDC recommends influenza vaccination for are:

• children aged 6–59 months*
• children and adolescents aged 6 months*–18 years who are on long-
term aspirin therapy
• adults and children* who have:
– chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems
– required regular medical follow-up or hospitalization during the
previous year because of chronic conditions
– any condition that can compromise respiratory function
• women who will be pregnant during the influenza season
• residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities who have
chronic medical conditions
• persons aged 50 years or older

Visit also FluSource - your source for flu information brought to you by Novartis Vaccines.

Note: Influenza vaccination may not prevent the disease in 100% of individuals. Persons should consult their healthcare provider to determine if they have a condition that precludes them from receiving the vaccine. All vaccines have side effects. The most common side effects of influenza vaccines include local reactions and mild general symptoms.

Read more about the flu symptoms [click here]..

Reference:
1. Prevention and Control of Influenza. Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Available at: www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr55e628a1.htm. Accessed May 2007.