Elite Urgent Care Center

Flu Shot

Influenza Vaccine

Influenza is a highly contagious virus responsible for lost productivity and mortality each year. The number of flu deaths every year ranges between 3,000 to 49,000 according to estimates from the CDC. (http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm) Most people who die from influenza are infants, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Even when the disease is not deadly, it can still be extremely uncomfortable for the person suffering from it.

In an effort to reduce the severity of influenza epidemics, a flu vaccine has been developed. Not only will taking a flu shot reduce your chances of getting sick during flu season, it will also reduce the virus's ability to move within a community where it might pose a serious risk to others around you.

Like all vaccines, the flu shot is developed by taking a weakened form of the influenza virus grown in an isolated environment, like an egg. This form of the virus is too weak to cause illness, but its presence in your body will promote the creation of antibodies that will protect you against infection. Influenza mutates rapidly, however, and new strains become active all the time. This is why it's important to get a new vaccine each year as your body may not have the antibodies required to fight the newest flu strain.

While everyone can benefit from a flu vaccine, a few people should be especially sure to get vaccinated every year:

-- People who are at risk of developing severe complications from an infection. These include diabetics, asthmatics and individuals with immune deficiencies.

-- Infants, young children and pregnant women.

-- The elderly over age 65.

-- People who work around high-risk individuals, including daycare workers and retirement home workers.

-- Healthcare personnel.

Flu vaccines are available in both injections and a nasal inhalent. There are also several types of vaccines made to protect against specific viruses. It's important that you discuss your options with your medical provider to determine what vaccine is best for you and your community.