Who Should Get a Flu Shot?

With the multiple strains of highly contagious influenza (flu) viruses this season, there is a danger of getting sick more than once, unless you get the seasonal flu vaccine. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everybody get a vaccine, it also has an updated list of who should get a shot in 2009.

What's in the Vaccine?

• The flu vaccine was developed as a way of giving people with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems immunity against the influenza virus. The vaccine usually contains inactive (killed) virus cells and is given as a shot (usually in the arm) with a needle. According to the CDC, each seasonal flu vaccine has three strains of the influenza virus: one A (H3N2) virus, one regular seasonal A (H1N1, not the same as the 2009 H1N1 "swine flu" virus), and one B virus. The flu vaccine changes each year based on what scientists believe will be the types and strains of viruses circulating in a given flu season. This estimation is based on international surveillance and monitoring of the influenza viruses. When you get a vaccine, your body develops immunity within approximately two weeks.

Who Should Be Vaccinated?

• While a seasonal vaccine is recommended even for a healthy person, the CDC also has a list of people it strongly advises to get shots. People at highest risk for complications from the seasonal flu include: children 6 months to 18 years old; people 65 or older; people living in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities; children 6 months and older and adults with chronic medical conditions, especially those with heart or lung conditions (including asthma); women who are or will be pregnant during the flu season; and finally, people who are at risk of transmitting the flu virus like nursing home caregivers, nurses, physicians, and anyone involved in any kind of health care work (in- or outpatient).

What Else You Should Know

• A seasonal flu shot can prevent serious illness. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise (if you are allergic to hen's eggs, for example, you should not get the flu shot), the World Health Organization recommends a flu shot because it prevents the spread of the virus and a possible epidemic. Every year, approximately 250,000 to 500,000 people worldwide die of the seasonal influenza or complications from the viruses. Although most clinics charge a fee for the vaccine, there are areas that offer free or subsidized vaccinations to people who are economically challenged. If you or a family member is at risk this year, consult your doctor and get protected against the seasonal influenza.