This Year’s Flu Vaccine “An Excellent Match”

By Stan Matthews
County Communications Program Manager

The San Juan County Health Department is re-emphasizing its call for all County residents to get flu vaccinations soon – and it is asking for a special effort to get young children, ages 6 months to 35 months vaccinated. In the U.S. last year, more than 300 children died of flu-related complications.

“Flu season normally begins at the end of December and peaks in February and March,” said County Health Officer Frank James, M.D. James pointed out that because families gather during the holidays, the disease can spread very quickly between very young and older family members.

“This year, the flu vaccine is a very good match for the varieties of flu that have been detected, so it will provide excellent protection for those who are vaccinated.” James said. The vaccine takes about two weeks to provide full protection.

James added, “Getting a flu vaccine during pregnancy can reduce the risk of getting the flu while pregnant and after and babies younger than six months can get very sick from flu, but are too young to get vaccinated. The best way to protect them is to have their caregivers and close contacts vaccinated.”

Seasonal flu shots have been given safely to millions of children and adults.  Preservative-free flu vaccine is available for pregnant women and small children.  An alternative formulation is the nasal spray, Flu Mist, for healthy kids 2 through 18 years.  Both types of influenza vaccine are safe and effective.

The state purchases flu vaccine for all kids aged 6 months through 18 years and distributes it at no cost for health care providers.  Providers may charge a small administration or office visit fee.