The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently recommending influenza vaccinations for individuals over the age of six months. Annual flu vaccinations can provide protection against the most common strains of the flu, reducing the spread of these viruses and lessening the risks for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals alike. Here are some of the most important facts to keep in mind when planning a flu vaccination for your child from a Sugar Land emergency clinic this year.
Flu Shots Do Not Protect Against All Influenza Viruses
Flu vaccinations protect against only a few of the existing flu viruses. For this year, the CDC is recommending quadrivalent vaccines that offer protection against four of the most common flu viruses:
- A/Michigan/45/2015 (H1N1)
- A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016A (H3N2)
- B/Colorado/06/2017
- B/Phuket/3073/2013
These vaccinations will provide protection against these strains of the flu virus and other similar strains. The recommendations offered by the CDC are typically adopted by local agencies, including your local Sugar Land emergency care clinic.
You Can Choose Among Application Methods
Depending on your preferences and your doctor’s recommendation, your child can receive the flu shot at a Sugar Land emergency clinic by injection or through an application of a nasal spray. Injections are preferred in most cases for patients who can tolerate them. The nasal spray vaccination method is not as reliable and may not provide the most effective protection for children and adults when receiving a vaccination. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC recommend the flu shot over the nasal spray because of its improved effectiveness in preventing the flu in both children and adults. For children who are extremely fearful of receiving a shot, however, nasal flu sprays can offer a safe and relatively effective alternative to the regular flu vaccine.
Who Should Receive the Flu Vaccine?
The CDC is recommending flu shots for individuals in good health over the age of six months. These shots are especially recommended for a few high-risk groups:
- Those at risk for Reye syndrome
- Children between the ages of six months and four years of age
- People over the age of 65 years
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Patients with immune system disorders
- Nursing home residents
- Caregivers and family members of high-risk individuals
By taking the time to get your child a flu shot this fall, you can potentially ward off these unwanted and sometimes dangerous illnesses to enjoy a healthier holiday season and new year.
At St. Michael’s Emergency Room, we offer the friendly and courteous Sugar Land emergency services you need to resolve urgent issues and to provide the right care immediately. Give us a call today at 281-980-4357 to ask about our services and to pre-register for care with us. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you at our Sugar Land emergency clinic.
Broken Bones
