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The CDC recommends that the following people get annual flu shots:
- Children 6 months to 18 years of age
- Adults over 50
- Anyone living in a nursing home assisted-living facility, rehab facility
- Anyone with a weakened immune system
- People who have frequent contact with the general public (health care, teachers, police, etc)
- Pregnant women
- Anyone with a chronic medical condition
- Caregivers, family members, friends of individuals that are at high risk.
Because Hospice and Palliative care patients are often over 50 years old, have chronic medical conditions and weakened immune systems, and may live in long term care facilities, this makes Hospice and Palliative care patients very high risk for contracting the flu virus. The risk of death from the flu is increased in people whose immune system cannot effectively combat the illness. Therefore it's very important for Hospice and Palliative care patients, their caregivers, and their loved ones to get the seasonal flu vaccine.
Who should not get the Seasonal Flu Vaccine?
- Those with allergies to eggs
- Anyone who's had a previous adverse reaction to a flu vaccine
- Anyone with a current infection or fever
- Those with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome
- Infants under six months old.
Remember, normal reactions to the flu shot include redness, tenderness, and swelling at the injection site. It is also normal to experience a low-grade fever (under 101) and decreased energey.
Not normal reactions include:
- Dizziness, high fever, disorientation, difficulty breathing or wheezing, rapid heartbeat.
- If you experience any abnormal reactions, contact your health care provider.
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