7 Insights into the Flu Season 2010-11 – Part 2

5) Should everyone get the flu vaccine? According to the CDC, you should speak to your doctor before getting the flu vaccine if you are allergic chicken eggs utilized in the flu vaccine production. The flu vaccine should also be avoided if you’ve had a serious reaction to it in the past, such as hives, breathing problems, weakness, dizziness, or a fast heartbeat.

6) If you get the flu vaccine, does that mean you are fully protected against the flu? The flu vaccine only protects you fully if the viruses circulating around your community are identical to those that were contained in the vaccine you were given. If that is the case, then the level of protection can be as high as 90 percent. However, if the circulating virus is not identical to the one in the flu vaccine, then protection is not guaranteed at all, especially if your immune system is weakened to begin with.

7) What can you do to prevent the flu in flu season 2010-2011 besides the flu vaccine? You should keep your hands off your face and wash them frequently. Also, cover your cough with a tissue as opposed to your hand, or if you don’t have one handy, cough into your shoulder or the crook of your arm. Sufficient sleep is also a key, because it keeps your immune system healthy and strong, which decreases your likelihood of catching a virus in the first place.

For more information, go to:

en.wikipedia.org,
www.cdc.gov

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.