Influenza Vaccination Week
12/5/2017
M. Ryan Brison, MSN, CNP, AGPCNP-BC
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) established National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) in 2005 to remind people that, even though the holiday season has begun, it’s NOT too late to get a flu shot. This year, NIVW is scheduled for December 3rd through the 9th. A second goal of the observance week is to communicate to those who are at the highest risk of complications if they acquire the flu.
For people at high risk, getting the flu can be far more serious than for other people. Flu is more likely to lead to hospitalization or death for people in the high risk groups, and their first line of defense is vaccination.
According to the CDC, people in the highest risk categories include:
- Children under the age of 5, but especially those under age 2
- Adults over the age of 65
- Pregnant women, and up to 2 weeks postpartum
- Residents of nursing homes and long term care facilities
- People with chronic medical conditions, including but not limited to asthma, diabetes and heart and lung diseases
- Those with weakened immune systems due to medications or medical conditions
- Obese patients – those with a BMI over 40
- Alaskan and American Indian natives also appear to be at higher risk
While the focus on immunization is not necessarily new, there are some new developments and recommendations for the 2017 flu season. First, the CDC reports that available vaccines have been updated to better match circulating viruses. Second, the recommendation to NOT use the nasal spray vaccine has been renewed this year – only injectable flu shots should be used for all populations.
Preventing the flu in as many people as possible is our first priority. But our local healthcare providers and hospital medical staff are prepared to react quickly to those high-risk patients who contract the virus. Work with your physician to determine the best vaccine type for you, and don’t delay in getting medical care if you suspect you have contracted the flu.
If you or your family members still need a flu shot, Pecos Valley Family Clinic often has same-day appointments available. We also offer extended hours for your convenience as well as limited walk-ins. We’re located at 2402 W. Pierce, Suite 2A. For an appointment or more information, give us a call at 887-0637, or visit PecosValleyDocs.com.
About the Author:
M. Ryan Brison, MSN, CNP, AGPCNP-BC, completed his education at Vanderbilt University and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. While his specialty is adult gerontology, as a nurse practitioner he is able to care for patients of all ages, and is accepting new patients at Pecos Valley Family Clinic, located at 2402 W. Pierce, Suite 2A, across the walkway from Southwest Pharmacy. For more information, call 887-0637 or visit PecosValleyDocs.com.
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