Flu Shot Effectiveness
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Factors
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The flu shot is most effective when the vaccine viruses are a close match to the flu viruses currently in circulation. Effectiveness rates also vary from person to person based on age and general level of health.
Healthy Adults
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If the flu vaccine is a close match to circulating viruses, the flu shot is 70 to 90 percent effective in preventing the flu in healthy adults.
The Elderly
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The flu shot is less effective in preventing flu in adults over the age of 65.
Children
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The flu shot is 66 percent effective in preventing influenza in young children. Older children receive greater protection from the shot.
Other Infections
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The flu shot provides protection against only seasonal influenza. It will not help prevent 2009 H1N1 flu or any non-flu viruses such as the common cold.
Increasing Effectiveness
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You need to get a new flu shot each year, preferably by October or November. Since the vaccine will not completely protect you against the flu, it's important to continue common sense prevention measures.
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