Getting Ready for Flu Season

Video Transcript: 
It’s that time of year again… time to start talking about the flu and the best ways to prevent it.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all children 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu shot during the 2016-2017 season. The Academy is NOT recommending the nasal spray vaccine this year, saying it is not as effective and recent research shows the shot provides significantly better protection.

Women who are pregnant are also encouraged to get vaccinated… due to the high risk of complications from the virus. The vaccination protects the mother, unborn child… and according to recent research, their infants during the first 6 months of life. Healthcare providers are being urged to begin offering flu shots early in the season, no later than October, and are advised to continue until June 30, 2017.

According to one of the co-authors of the new policy statement, “Protecting children from influenza with the vaccine, early in the respiratory season, is the best protection pediatricians and parents can provide.”

I’m Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV… with information that can help keep your family healthy.

Cold and flu have the worst timing. OhioHealth Urgent Care can help. We know you want to take care of yourself and your family immediately. Click here to find an urgent care near you.