What the Flu Is This? Understanding Influenza Today

Recently, I have observed that the flu vaccine has not been very effective, as individuals who received the shot are still contracting the flu. So let’s address a very common question:Could you please explain why I should receive the shot if it may not be effective? Every year a new flu vaccine is created based on the “most likely to be present” strains. If a new flu strain emerges that the seasonal flu shot doesn’t cover, you can get the flu.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

There is a SUPER FLU SHOT. Do you know about it? Ha! I know it’s not because I love superheroes because I do. It’s just a high-dose flu, and it is about 24.2% more effective in preventing the flu in those ≥65 and older than the standard dose. There is also a lower risk of hospital admission compared with the standard dose, especially if those ≥65 and older live in a long-term care facility. ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS? Just like the standard dose, and reported more frequently with the high dose, these are mild and temporary.

• • Pain
  • Redness at the injection site
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Malaise

  The majority of people have either minimal or no adverse effects at all.

  Another common question is

  “What if I have an EGG ALLERGY?” If your allergy = hives and itchy skin. You can get the vaccine safely. BUT, even if you have severe swelling of lips, face, respiratory issues, or recurrent vomiting, or if you’ve needed epinephrine for it in the past… YOU CAN STILL GET IT. Just make sure you’re in a clinic setting or hospital setting where you can be appropriately treated if needed. However, why do healthcare professionals like myself emphasize the importance of the flu vaccine and being aware of the flu? Because of the POSSIBLE: COMPLICATIONS

• • Pneumonia
  • Bronchitis
  • Sinus infections
  • Ear infections

  It can make a stable chronic condition. WORSE

  • Asthma
  • COPD
  • Congestive heart failure

  [To the point that asks you to hospitalize immediately]

  TREATMENT AND BENEFITS?

  • Doctors recommend antivirals mostly to those ≥65 years old.
  • They shorten the duration of being sick by 1-2 days.
  • If you are high risk, then it can decrease the severity of the symptoms and keep you OUT of the hospital.
  • Antivirals work best if given WITHIN 48 hours of getting sick.
  • And lastly, you can receive prophylactic treatment (preventive) if one of your family members has the flu and you’ve been exposed to it.

  You can, of course, stay at home and rest if you’re not in the high-risk group, hydrate, sleep, etc.

  When should you GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM?

  • Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or inability to wake up
  • Seizures
  • Not Urinating
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Severe weakness or unsteadiness
  • The fever or cough initially improved but then worsened again.
  • Any worsening in your current medical conditions like ASTHMA, COPD, CHF