November 26, 2007

During National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW), which kicks off today and ends Sunday, Dec. 2, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) and Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) encourage anyone who has not yet received a flu vaccination to get one now. NIVW is aimed at raising awareness about the seriousness of influenza and the importance of vaccination. Vaccination is the single best protection against influenza. The time to get a flu vaccine starts in September and continues beyond the holiday season, through January or later, when the influenza season typically peaks.

"National Influenza Vaccination Week provides a valuable opportunity for our community to tell people how important it is to get an annual flu shot," said MDCH Director Janet Olszewski. "Getting vaccinated is the single best way for people to protect not only themselves against the flu, but their loved ones as well."

This year, Nov. 27 has been set aside as Children's Flu Vaccination Day, with a focus on vaccinating high-risk children and their close contacts. Each year more than 20,000 children under age 5 are hospitalized as a result of influenza.

Record amounts of flu vaccine have already been shipped this season, so consult your doctor or health clinic to schedule an appointment for yourself and your loved ones. The flu vaccine will last for the entire flu season and a "booster," or second dose, is not necessary. A second dose of flu vaccine is required for children aged six months to 8 years old who are getting vaccinated for the first time or who received one dose in the 2006-07 season. The second dose must be given at least four weeks after the first.

Flu is a serious disease that can cause mild to severe illness and can even lead to death. During 26 of the past 30 influenza seasons, flu activity peaked in January or later, highlighting the importance of extending the vaccination season throughout the winter months. Each year in the U.S., an average of 36,000 people die, and more than 200,000 are hospitalized from flu-related complications. In general, the flu is worse than the common cold and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense.

For further information about flu vaccine, contact your health care provider. To find a flu clinic in your area, visit the American Lung Association's flu clinic locator at www.flucliniclocator.org.