PACIFIC OAKS
Stay Healthy This Flu Season, Get Vaccinated!!!
As autumn approaches, it’s time to think about preparing our communities for the Flu season. Typically, the flu vaccine is administered beginning in late October and can be given through February.
Influenza, “the flu,” is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness that usually results in mild sickness, but may result in severe, life-threatening complications in susceptible persons. Annually, an estimated 226,000 influenza-related hospitalizations occur each year, and another 36,000 people die due to complications. According to the CDC, “influenza vaccination is the primary method for preventing influenza and its severe complications.”
Certain people are at higher risk for serious complications from the flu. The CDC recommends that the following persons be vaccinated: persons aged ³65 years; residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities that house persons of any age who have chronic medical conditions; adults and children who have chronic disorders such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, blood disorders, and cancer,; adults and children who have cognitive dysfunction, spinal cord injuries, seizure disorders, or other neuromuscular disorders that can compromise respiratory function or at higher risk for an aspiration event; adults and children who require regular medical follow-up or hospitalization during the previous year because of their chronic condition; children and teenagers (6 months –18 years old) who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy; all pregnant women; and children aged 6-23 months. Lastly, anyone who is interested in staying healthy and to decrease their risk of contracting the flu should be vaccinated.
Pacific Oaks Medical Group is offering the injectable formulation of influenza vaccine now. Please call the office to inquire.
Hieu Hoang, DO, MPH
