Gregory E. Keyes, M.D. - A Word From Your Doctor


	A Word From Your Doctor\| An annual flu shot (influenza vaccine)

Influenza, or the flu, is generally not dangerous, but complications from the infection can be. Some people who get the flu become seriously ill and need to be hospitalized. Some people even die from illnesses related to the flu. That's why it's important for you and your child's doctor to determine whether your family needs the flu vaccine.

How the Flu Vaccine Works

The flu vaccine, usually called a flu shot, protects people against the flu. The vaccine, which is usually offered between September and mid-November (but may be given at other times of the year), creates immunity to the flu through an injection of relatively harmless microorganisms that come from or are similar to the viruses that cause the flu. Flu season is from November to April, with most cases occurring between late December and early March.
A common myth about the flu shot is that it can actually cause the flu. But the flu vaccine in the United States is made from killed influenza viruses, which means that it's impossible to catch the flu by getting this vaccine. Each year, the vaccine is updated to include the most current strains of the virus. After getting a flu shot, a person's body will create antibodies to fight the virus if exposed to it. Antibodies against flu develop and provide protection within 1 or 2 weeks after vaccination.

The vaccine is given as one shot in the upper arm. For children under 8 who are getting a flu shot for the first time, it is given in two separate shots 1 month apart.

The flu shot reduces the average person's chances of catching the flu by up to 80% during the season. For healthy young adults, the flu shot reduces the risk of getting the flu by up to 90%. Even if an immunized person gets the flu, symptoms usually will be fewer and milder. Remember that the flu vaccine prevents infection with only a few of the viruses that can cause flu-like symptoms, so getting the vaccine isn't a guarantee that you won't get sick during the season.