According to Dr. Susan Rehm, of Cleveland Clinic, there are several new features in the types of vaccines that are available this year.
“There is a new vaccine that’s available for people 65 years and older that has what’s called an adjuvant in it; this is an added chemical to help it work better,” says Rehm.
Another vaccine will be available to people who have a history of egg allergy that is manufactured without the use of any egg products.
For the first time, there will be no nasal spray vaccine this year. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) took a look back at the last couple of years and determined that it was basically ineffective, so it has been taken off of the market for this season.
Rehm also says that more of this year’s vaccine has activity against four strains of flu, rather than just three as in previous years.
Protecting Those at Risk
Rehm said it’s important to remember that getting vaccinated not only protects the individual, but it also helps protect those around them, including those who may be more at risk for complications.
The very old, the very young, pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions are at a heightened risk for hospitalization, and even death from the flu. The flu shot is especially important for pregnant women, as the flu can impact both a pregnant mom and her baby, as well.
The Sooner the Better
When it comes to making the time to get vaccinated, Rehm says the sooner the better.
“It’s really important for people to take the flu vaccine as early in the season as they can,” Rehm explains. “It takes at least two weeks for antibodies to show up after the vaccine’s been given. So the sooner you take the vaccine, the sooner you’ll be protected.”
Rehm said that if for some reason a person can’t get vaccinated until later in the season, it’s still a good idea to get the flu shot, as it is better late than never.
Article courtesy of Cleveland Clinic News Service.
