Have you gotten your FLU shot this year?

Have you gotten your FLU SHOT this year? One of my patients, a 60-year-old man who travels frequently, became ill in June of this year after attending a conference. Symptoms included severe body aches, cough, headache and low-grade fever.  After developing symptoms, he received notification that a person at the conference had come down with  influenza A.  The patient unfortunately tested positive for influenza A and was treated with Tamiflu. 

Keep in mind Influenza can occur at any time of the year. It is important to have an annual flu vaccination! The flu usually occurs the most during the late Fall and Winter months although closer to the equator influenza is a year-round illness. This patient’s illness could’ve been prevented by taking the flu vaccination the previous Fall.   

The flu vaccination is recommended for people past the age of 60; however, at younger ages if the person has chronic lung or heart disease, or is immunosuppressed. I also personally recommend the influenza vaccination to anyone who travels on airplanes more than once or twice a year.  Be aware that influenza has a 10-15% mortality rate.  Flu vaccine is always available at Walgreens, CVS or at OUR OFFICE! Please get you flu shot today!