We may have gotten off easy with last year's flu season, but don't expect a repeat this time around. That's because new strains are headed our way. KING 5's Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson says the time to get vaccinated is now. Here are commonly asked questions about flu shots.
Who needs flu shots the most?
- Children between 6 and 18 years of age
- Children with asthma, diabetes or neurologic conditions
- Pregnant moms & families with infants
Flu shot science
- Flu shots have 3 strains: 2 Influenza A & 1 Influenza B
- Flu shots are an "annual shot" to protect us as the virus changes
- Over 100 countries test flu strains year round to predict what strains are needed
- For those between 2 and 49 years, a nasal flu spray is available
What Parents Can Do
- It's not too early. Go for flu shots now!
- Some children will need 2 doses (1 month apart) if under age 9
- 10-40% of children get influenza each season-- so stay home when ill
- Pregnant moms and parents to infants should get shots to protect their babies
Related links
- Flu shot information from CDC
- How experts determine the strains for flu shot each year
- How to find a flu shot near your home
- Children and influenza--"Every Year Is An Influenza Pandemic For Children"
More about Dr. Swanson: Facebook | Twitter: @SeattleMamaDoc | Read Her Blog
