Although the H1N1 influenza pandemic has been officially
declared over (you can read the statement from the World Health
Organization here), it is not too soon to start thinking about
the upcoming 2010-2011 flu season. Actually, during a recent
visit to our local pharmacy, I noticed the sign “Flu shots
available here.” Hmmm… there is a difference between thinking
and doing - is it really time to vaccinate now? Here’s what I
found: - The 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against 3 flu
viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus.
- Routine influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone ages
6 months and older. - As in the past, all children aged 6 months
to 8 years who receive a seasonal influenza vaccine for the
first time should receive 2 doses. - For the 2010-2011 season,
children 6 months to 8 years who did not receive at least 1 dose
of an influenza A (H1N1) 2009 monovalent vaccine should receive
2 doses of a 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccine. - And lastly,
yes…the Centers for Di