Flu season is upon us once again, and once again we are faced with the question of “Should I get a flu shot”? One answer of course is “Yes”. Many people believe that if they receive a flu shot the will come down with the flu or a like illness. That is not the case. If you get ill after receiving your flu shot it is likely that you would have gotten ill regardless of the flu vaccine. There are exceptions to every rule though and it would be advised to avoid getting a flu shot if you are allergic to eggs, if you are immunocompromised, have a high fever, or have had a bad reaction (rash, fever) to previous flu vaccination. It is highly recommended to get a flu shot if you are over age 50, work with elderly, have chronic illness such as diabetes, lung disease, or if you live with others who have these illnesses. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine. These are available at many locations on the Kenai Peninsula. Flu Mist is an option for those who are less than enthused about getting a needle immunization. It is a nasal formulation which is sprayed into each nostril, and is recommended for those aged 5 to 49. You may contact your health care provider to see if this is available.

Pneumonia vaccines are another recommended vaccine for all ages. It is recommended that adults receive this vaccine once every 5 years. Infants and children are immunized routinely by their health care providers. Check with your child’s provider to insure your children are adequately protected. Symptoms of pneumonia include fever, cough, malaise, shortness of breath, or breathing difficulties. Contact your health care provider if you experience these symptoms.

If you do not receive your vaccinations and happen to be unlucky enough to contract the flu, there are medications available to help ease your symptoms. These are prescription medications which need to be ordered by your provider. Symptoms of the flu are high fever, body aches, chills, sore throat, and runny nose. Over the counter medications may also be used for symptomatic relief.

So from all of us at Kenai Family Practice, cover you face when you sneeze, wash your hands and try to have a healthy, fever-free winter!