Category: Flu Vaccine

SACRAMENTO, Calif. Flu activity in California has reached a high level as national Flu Vaccine Week comes to an end, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC is reporting an 8% influenza positivity rate in California.

This season has been robust as in past years we are seeing an increase in the amount of patients coming in for flu vaccines this year," said Lauren Landeta who works with CVS.

According toCVS, 75% of people are planning to get a flu shot this year, 40% of which will get it somewhere other than the doctors office.

This year, there is something new to consider when making an appointment for older adults.

We have a brand new vaccine come out for RSV. This is for patients 60 years and older and whenever a new vaccine comes out, we want to make sure we are invested in patients, said Landeta.

RSV was a big concern for children during the pandemic but adults are the carriers. Pharmacists are emphasizing getting the RSV, flu and COVID vaccine ahead of the holiday season when people are gathering.

A big myth is that its too late in the season to get your flu vaccine. It is not too late, in fact, flu season does go through March and up to May sometimes so it is not too late to get your flu vaccine especially with family gatherings coming up. It is important to protect yourself, family and friends, said Landeta.

If you arent sure which vaccines you should get or when you should get them, chat with your doctor or schedule a consult with your local pharmacist.

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'It's not too late': Officials suggest getting vaccines ahead of holidays, gatherings - ABC10.com KXTV

Navigating the onset of flu season brings the annual challenge of distinguishing between the symptoms of the flu and common colds, a task made more complex by their occasional overlap. A flu shot can help protect against the flu, keeping your immune system strong enough to fight off other infections.

Flu symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and a runny or stuffy nose. It is difficult to differentiate influenza from COVID-19 or another respiratory virus, therefore seeking testing is critical to determine if treatment is needed as treatment is available for high risk individuals if diagnosed early in their disease process.

One common concern during flu season is the possibility of falling ill back-to-back, experiencing both the flu and another respiratory infection within a short timeframe. Unfortunately, it is indeed possible to contract different illnesses sequentially, therefore reinforcing your immune system by practicing good hygiene, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the risk of falling prey to multiple illnesses.

Read: The power of food as medicine during flu season

While getting a flu shot is recommended for all, it holds particular significance for individuals with compromised immune systems and cardiovascular risk factors.

Individuals with compromised immune systems face unique challenges during flu season, making vaccination a top priority. Conditions such as HIV/AIDS, certain cancers, organ transplants, and autoimmune diseases can weaken the body's ability to fight infections effectively. To protect against the flu, immunocompromised individuals are strongly encouraged to get a flu shot.

Another group who should be sure to be vaccinated against influenza are people with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or any other condition which raises the risk for heart attack. Infection with influenza significantly increases the risk for subsequent heart attack and multiple studies have shown the protective effect of yearly flu vaccine as an important way to prevent heart attacks.

Beyond immunocompromised individuals and those with cardiovascular risk factors, various groups should prioritize getting a flu shot to safeguard their health and the well-being of those around them. This includes:

Read: What to expect and how to protect your family this flu season

This flu season, Jennifer Veltman, MD, chair of infectious diseases, recommends prioritizing your health and those around you by getting a flu shot. Your decision to vaccinate is a powerful act of protection, contributing to a resilient community and a safer, healthier winter. Plus its always nice to stay out of the hospital during the holiday season and flu vaccine can certainly reduce your risk of hospitalization from flu!

To schedule a flu shot for you or your family, schedule a vaccine appointment onMyChartor contact Loma Linda University Primary Care at909-255-3236.

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Do you get sick back-to-back? Here's how the flu shot can help | News - Loma Linda University

Every year, influenza, commonly known as the flu, affects countless individuals worldwide. Particularly vulnerable are those with underlying health conditions like diabetes or asthma. In fact, during past flu seasons, 9 out of 10 adults hospitalized with flu had at least one underlying health condition. This makes the flu shot an essential protective measure against this pervasive disease, especially for these at-risk individuals.

According to the Weekly Influenza Vaccination Dashboard provided by the CDC, vaccination data is consistently tracked, including coverage estimates for children, pregnant persons, adults, and adults 65+. The dashboard also offers insight into the locations administering these vaccinations, whether in pharmacies or medical offices. It emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination for people at higher risk of serious complications from influenza and encourages everyone 6 months and older to get a flu vaccine every season.

The Rhode Island Department of Health also advocates for vaccination against common respiratory viruses. With the holiday season approaching, gatherings and travel could increase the spread of these viruses. This makes it particularly important for older adults and individuals with underlying health issues to get vaccinated. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are widely available and can be received simultaneously. The department also provides information on additional preventative measures such as regular handwashing, covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when sick.

A recent meta-analysis study suggests the flu vaccine may offer more protection than previously thought. The study indicates a significant decrease in the risk of heart attacks and deaths from cardiovascular diseases among vaccinated individuals. The researchers suggest that the flu vaccines ability to reduce inflammation caused by the flu, prevent secondary infections, and stabilize atherosclerotic plaque could contribute to these heart health benefits. Despite these findings, flu vaccination rates have dropped, particularly among adults over 65, a demographic that witnessed the highest flu-related deaths last year.

The CDC recommends influenza antiviral medications for adults with underlying conditions, particularly during periods of co-circulation of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Oral oseltamivir and oral baloxavir are available treatment options for patients at higher risk for influenza complications depending on their underlying conditions and age. The use of peramivir or zanamivir in high-risk outpatients with influenza is limited. The highest risk for complications from influenza is for children younger than 2 years old. Antiviral treatment decisions should be based on knowledge of other circulating respiratory viruses as well as influenza virus strains.

The importance of influenza vaccination for adults with underlying conditions is further emphasized during National Influenza Vaccination Week. This event encourages action and provides educational resources to inform readers about the topic and the urgency of getting vaccinated.

With the widespread prevalence of influenza and the heightened risk for those with underlying conditions, it is clear that the flu shot is an essential protective measure. As researchers continue to uncover the additional benefits of the flu vaccine, it is crucial to promote awareness and encourage vaccination, particularly among the most vulnerable populations.

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The Importance of Influenza Vaccination for Adults with Underlying Health Conditions - Medriva

Healthy Savannah, YMCA promote flu vaccination ahead of holidays

by Christian Felt

Healthy Savannah is working with the YMCA of Coastal Georgia to remind residents that it's not too late to get the flu shot as a part of National Influenza Vaccination Week (Credit: File){p}{/p}

(WTGS)

Healthy Savannah is working with the YMCA of Coastal Georgia to remind residents that it's not too late to get the flu shot as a part of National Influenza Vaccination Week.

Elsie Smalls, Healthy Savannah's Operations Manager said as the temperatures continue to drop and the holidays rapidly approach, it is important for residents to protect themselves from the threat of getting sick.

Smalls also said that she wanted to dispel some myths regarding the vaccine.

She said the shot is made up of inactive strains of the virus that can't actually infect you. She added that although it doesn't 100% prevent illness, it will significantly reduce the severity of your symptoms if you were to get sick.

The CDC also offers an online tool to find vaccination providers in your area.

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South Carolina health department urges flu vaccinations during National Flu Vaccine Week - ABC NEWS 4

New York State Department of Health Commissioner James McDonald. (Mike Gwizdala MediaNews Group file)

NEW YORK New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald recently said in a press release that influenza is now prevalent in New York State. The declaration requires that healthcare workers who have not received this years flu vaccine wear masks in certain healthcare settings.

With National Influenza Vaccination Week recognized on Dec. 4-8, in the release, the Department urged the public to get their flu vaccine as holiday gatherings approach.

We have now declared that flu is prevalent in New York State, which means health care personnel who are not vaccinated against the flu this season need to take extra precautions and wear a mask in health care facilities, as they are exposed to sick patients and come into close contact with those most vulnerable to the flu, McDonald said in the release. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu shot as it is the best way to protect yourself and will lessen the symptoms if you do get sick. Its not too late; get your flu shot today.

McDonalds announcement requires unvaccinated healthcare workers in healthcare and residential facilities and agencies regulated by the Department to wear surgical or procedure masks during those times when the Commissioner declares that influenza is prevalent in New York State.

According to the release, these facilities include but are not limited to: hospitals, nursing homes, diagnostic and treatment centers, certified home health agencies, long-term home health care programs, AIDS home care programs, licensed home care service agencies, limited licensed home care service agencies and hospices.

Amendments to the regulations allow for the removal of masks when healthcare workers are accompanying patients in the community, providing speech therapy services or communicating with persons who lip read.

The Regulation for Prevention of Influenza Transmission first went into effect during the 2013-14 flu season. Wednesdays announcement puts into effect a provision of the regulation that was made annually from 2014 to 2019.

The last time the declaration was made was in late 2019 and was then left in place throughout the COVID-19 public health emergency said the release. On May 18, 2023, after the public health emergency ended, the declaration was removed and will return on an annual basis, if needed as designated by the State Health Commissioner.

The Department also continues to recommend to all who are eligible to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine and RSV vaccine. The Departments Influenza Surveillance Report, with data through November 25, shows a total of 14,227 positive flu cases across all 62 counties in New York have been reported this season to date, said the release.

Outside of New York City, week-over-week lab-confirmed flu cases are up 34%, rising from 1,487 cases in the previous week to 1,993, according to the release. In New York City, cases are up 21%, rising from 1,713 cases in the previous week to 2,068.

This information is also available on the Departments Flu Tracker, said the release, which provides timely information about local, regional and statewide influenza activity.

There have been two pediatric flu-associated deaths in the state; one in Erie County and one in New York City. These deaths will be reported in the influenza report that will be issued later this week, according to the Departments release.

The flu shot is available to those 6 months and older. Those aged 65 years and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions, young children and pregnant women are most in jeopardy of developing serious complications, said the release, which could require hospitalization and result in death.

In addition, the release said those 65 years of age and older should get a high-dose flu shot if available.

Avoiding illness by getting the flu shot remains the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce the risk of severe illness for children and adults said the release. According to research gathered by the CDC, vaccination has significant health advantages, particularly for people at risk of getting very sick, including:

It prevents people from getting sick with the flu, cutting the risk of having to go to the doctor by 40 to 60%.

In children, the vaccine reduces the risk of severe, life-threatening flu by 75%; decreases flu-related hospitalizations by 41%; and cuts the risk of emergency department visits in half.

Flu vaccination during pregnancy reduces the risk of being hospitalized by an average of 40% and helps protect the baby from influenza for several months after birth when babies are too young to get vaccinated.

For older adults, the vaccine reduces the risk of flu-associated hospitalization by about 40%.

Among those with chronic health conditions, the flu shot is associated with lower rates of some cardiac events, as well as reducing the risk of hospitalization from flu-related worsening of lung diseases and diabetes.

The Department utilizes several tools to increase public knowledge about rising flu rates, the release said, and the importance of vaccinations as a critical prevention step, including public education campaigns and information on social media platforms Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

The flu shot is widely available, found at pharmacies, health clinics and physicians offices across the state, the release said. To locate a flu shot location nearby, visit vaccines.gov.

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, the department listed simple preventative actions that can help stop the spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses:

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when sick.

Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For more information about influenza in New York, visit the Departments flu website: health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal.

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NYS Health Department declares the flu prevalent in state - Troy Record

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People who get the flu vaccine may have improved heart health, according to a recent study published in Scientific Reports.

Researchers from the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran, concluded that patients who received flu vaccinations had a 26% reduced risk of having a heart attack and were 33% less likely to die from cardiovascular disease.

This finding is based on a review of five randomized controlled trials that focused on myocardial disease and influenza vaccines.

CHILDHOOD PNEUMONIA SURGE REPORTED IN NETHERLANDS AMID OUTBREAK IN CHINA

The patients who participated in the studies had all been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease previously and were 61 years old, on average.

Out of the total of 9,059 patients, 4,529 of them received the flu vaccine, while 4,530 received a placebo shot.

People who get the flu vaccine may have improved heart health, according to a recent study published in Scientific Reports. (iStock)

After a nine-month period, 621 of the people who received the placebo shot experienced "major cardiovascular events," compared to 517 of the patients who received the flu vaccine.

Those outcomes included myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death and stroke.

WHEN MEASURING HEART ATTACK RISK, ONE IMPORTANT RED FLAG IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED, DOCTORS SAY

"Revealing a compelling insight into the potential benefits of influenza vaccination, our comprehensive meta-analysis, based on the latest randomized controlled trial data, demonstrates a significant interaction between influenza vaccination and the reduction of major cardiovascular events," wrote the researchers of the study.

"Notably, patients who received the influenza vaccine experienced a remarkable risk reduction of over 20% in cardiovascular death."

Patients who received flu vaccinations had a 26% reduced risk of having a heart attack and were 33% less likely to die from cardiovascular disease. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

As for why influenza vaccines seem to reduce the risk, the researchers noted that the shot could prevent inflammation and secondary infections, while also stabilizing plaque amounts in the heart.

The vaccine could also help stimulate the immune system, which the study authors noted is essential for cardiovascular health.

SHOULD YOU GET THE COVID AND FLU VACCINES AT THE SAME TIME?

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, called the study "important" and said it "builds on what we already knew."

He was not involved in the research.

Heart disease is the primary cause of death among U.S. adults, killing one person every 33 seconds, according to the CDC. (iStock)

"It is not surprising that flu shots would decrease the risk of heart attacks," Siegel told Fox News Digital.

"The flu is one of the great enablers," he went on. "It adds stress and inflammation to the body and decreases the overall immune response, all of which can lead to acute cardiac events."

The flu "adds stress and inflammation to the body and decreases the overall immune response."

The researchers called for further research to "elucidate the precise mechanisms driving this association and to explore the long-term impact of influenza vaccination on cardiovascular outcomes."

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In the meantime, they recommended that "health care providers and policymakers should take heed of these findings and consider prioritizing influenza vaccination for patients with recent cardiovascular disease as a feasible and potentially life-saving preventive measure."

Fox News Digital reached out to the study authors for additional comment.

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Heart disease is the primary cause of death among U.S. adults, killing one person every 33 seconds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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Could flu vaccination reduce the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular deaths? - Fox News

Pharmacies, clinics, and primary care providers are offering the 2023-2024 updated covid booster and this years flu vaccineand its both safe and convenient to get both vaccines at the same time, according to medical experts.

In fact, you can get both shots in the same arm, said Dr. Graham Snyder, medical director of infection prevention and hospital epidemiology at UPMC.

There is no compelling evidence that either the effectiveness of either vaccine, or the risk of having a complication or side effects, is any different if you take them together or if you take them separately, said Snyder.

The CDC says that getting your respiratory virus vaccines together is perfectly fine, he said. We always want to make sure as many people as possible are availing themselves of these two protections.

Both vaccines sometimes have minor side effects, like a sore arm or body aches, but they shouldnt last more than a few days, Snyder added.

When we inject your arm (and it gets sore,) that is the blood flowing to that area, and that is your immune response in that area, just like if you get stung by a bee or if you get bitten by something, explained Dr. Brian Lamb, internal medicine physician at AHN. Your immune system is going to that area. Your body is detecting something foreign in that area so its going to investigate and see whats going on.

Aches and slight feverishness after the shots are a sign that your immune system is doing its job and learning how to fight the flu and covid, Lamb said. If you dont have symptoms, that doesnt mean the vaccine did not worksome people react differently and have milder symptoms.

Its kind of like putting your body through boot camp, he said. The vaccine is made to mimic that youre already under attackIts the same type of symptoms you get when you are sick. Its because your immune system is starting to rev up.

Keep updated

Whether a person gets the shots at the same time or on different visits, its important to keep updated, Snyder said.

People are more likely to get their full slate of vaccinations if they can get the ones that are safe and effective at the same time, Snyder said. Its more likely for people to get vaccinated if you can get them when its convenient. You risk people not coming back for that second visit.

Even if you previously got vaccinated for covid-19 or got your booster last year, this years vaccine is worth getting, said Dr. Barbara Nightingale, deputy director for clinical services at the Allegheny County Health Department.

(Covid and flu) are still leading causes of hospitalization and death, and it changes over time, Nightingale said. Even if you got the vaccine previously, the viruses change over time, and your immunity fades over time.

At the Allegheny County Immunization Clinic, people can get their flu and covid vaccines at the same time, along with a vaccine for RSV if they qualify.

A lot of people who are older would benefit from getting all of those, she said. You can actually get (covid, flu, and RSV shots) at the same visit, if you want.

Many people have been getting their covid and flu vaccines at the same time at the county clinic, she said.

Mostly its convenienceits one and done, she said. Some people prefer that if they have a little bit of side effects from it, they prefer to just have it all at one time. The vast majority, its because of convenience, that you only have to go to one visit.

Not too late

Its not too late to get a flu or covid vaccine for this year, Snyder emphasized.

Generally speaking for vaccines, it takes your body a couple weeks to get fully prepared, from the time you receive the vaccine until the immune system has had time to process that information. If you wait until influenza is already at its peak, youve missed the opportunity to fully protect yourself, he said.

Were starting to see the number of influenza cases pick up. There may still be a lot of time left in the seasonthere is plenty of time to have the benefits from the protection you get from the influenza vaccine. Its most definitely not too late.

Julia Maruca is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Julia at jmaruca@triblive.com.

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Why get your flu shot and covid booster at the same time? Experts weigh in - TribLIVE

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Researchers have found that the flu vaccine may be associated with a lower risk of dementia and heart attack.

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Researchers find flu vaccine may protect people from more than just flu - CBS Boston

A doctor uses a hand-held Doppler probe on a pregnant woman to measure the heartbeat of the fetus. Photo: Rogelio V. Solis/AP A doctor uses a hand-held Doppler probe on a pregnant woman to measure the heartbeat of the fetus. Photo: Rogelio V. Solis/AP

National Influenza Vaccination Week (Dec. 4-8) reminds us that everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu shot, including pregnant people. It is best to get vaccinated before the flu season starts, but you can get a flu shot at any time during the season and at any time during pregnancy.

Pregnant people are at higher risk of getting very sick from the flu, being hospitalized, or dying from flu-related complications. If a pregnant person gets sick with the flu, it can also cause serious problems with their pregnancy, such as preterm labor and birth.

Getting a flu shot is a safe way to protect both a pregnant person and their developing baby from serious illness and complications of flu. Flu shots have been given to millions of pregnant people for over 50 years, and have not been shown to cause harm to pregnant people or their babies.

If you are pregnant getting a flu shot reduces your risk of being hospitalized with flu by an average of 40%. Your flu shot also helps to protect your baby from flu illness and flu-related hospitalizations for the first several months after their birth. Antibodies you develop in response to the vaccine are passed on to your developing baby during pregnancy.

The best way to keep you and your baby healthy this flu season is to get your flu shot. For more information visit Pregnant? Get a Flu Shot.

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A flu vaccine is the best protection against flu for pregnant persons - Mshale