Medac Health Services, P.A.

Of Special Interest

Should I be Vaccinated Against Influenza, "The Flu" and/or Pneumonia?

In an average year, influenza is associated with more than 20,000 deaths and more than 100,000 hospitalizations. So, if you are one of the three high risk groups for developing serious complications from having the influenza infection, then it is strongly recommend that you talk with your physician regarding the vaccine and see if you fall into one of the high-risk categories.

The high-risk group includes all people age 65 or older and any age person with chronic illness of the heart, lung, or kidneys, and with diabetes, immunosuppression, or severe forms of anemia. This includes residents of nursing homes and other chronic care related homes. Also, pregnant women in their second or third trimester during Influenza season, and children and teenagers who are being treated with long-term aspirin therapy, which may place them at risk of developing Reye's syndrome after an influenza virus infection.

In 2000, anyone 50-64 years in age was added to the group due to the fact that 24% to 32% have at least one of the high-risk conditions. Health care workers, as well as those in frequent contact with patients in the high-risk group, are recommended for the vaccine as well.

Since peak season for the flu is late December thru early March, it is recommended that you receive an annual vaccine during October thru November.

On the other hand, the pnuemococcal vaccination is usually administered once in a person’s lifetime, not annually. Revaccination with pneumococcal vaccine should be considered for high-risk patients after 6 or more years due to a decline in antibody titers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that only half of the public in the high-risk group received vaccination last season. There are many reasons the public does not wish to be vaccinated; some feel the vaccine failed to protect them after they had similar symptoms, and many people are not aware of the seriousness of the influenza infection. Another common worry is the side effects of the vaccine. The vaccine may cause soreness at the site, fever, and/or fatigue for 1 to 2 days.

Symptoms of the flu, which is an infection of the respiratory tract, can often cause a more severe illness than the common cold. The illness usually includes fever of 100 to 103 degrees, and respiratory symptoms such as cough, score throat, runny or stuffy nose, as well as headache, muscle aches, and extreme fatigue. Sometimes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can accompany the flu. However, the term "stomach flu" is a misnomer that is used to describe gastrointestinal illnesses caused by organisms other than the influenza viruses. You can expect a full recovery from the flu in 1 to 2 weeks.

In summary, the vaccinations that are offered to the public are our best defense to reduce and/or control the wide spread of unwanted disease. For this flu/pneumonia season, which is rapidly upon us, the CDC feels there will be an adequate supply of the vaccination available for the public.

--Diane Harris, DO

Diane E. Harris, D.O. is board certified in family practice. Dr Harris graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville, MO., and completed residency training in Camp Pendleton Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, CA.