Below, we have compiled some of the most frequest questions that we are asked, to assist you in your research and to provide quick answers as you wait for more detailed responses from us.
The flu shot is 70-90% effective in preventing the flu and lasts for up to three months each flu season.
For best results, you should get a flu shot between September and November each year. This will prepare you for what is commonly called the ‘flu season’.
The flu virus is easily spread from person to person through respiratory droplets by coughing or sneezing. It can also happen when touching the hand of someone with these droplets present, and touching your own nose or mouth before washing your hands.
In spite of rumors to the contrary, getting a flu shot can NOT give you the flu. You may have a sore arm for a day or so, but it will not set you back. And you will have protection against the flu for three months. Because the vaccine takes up to two weeks to reach full effectiveness, some people will develop flu like symptoms during that small window. Typically, however, with the help of the vaccine you will experience milder symptoms.
People who are significantly ill with fever should not be vaccinated until their symptoms are gone (this does not include minor illnesses, without fever).
Persons who have had hives or swelling of the lips or tongue, or who have experienced acute respiratory distress, or who collapse after eating eggs should consult a physician for appropriate evaluation to help determine if vaccine should be administered. Persons who have documented immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity to eggs, including those who have had occupational asthma related to egg exposure or other allergic responses to egg protein, also might be at increased risk for allergic reactions to influenza vaccine, and consultation with a physician before vaccination should be considered. Hypersensitivity reactions to vaccine components can occur but are rare.
Thimerosal is a common preservative used during the vaccine’s developmental stages. Although exposure to vaccines containing thimerosal can lead to hypersensitivity, the majority of patients do not have reactions to thimerosal when it is administered as a component of vaccines, even when patch or intradermal tests for thimerosal indicate hypersensitivity. Heritage Health Concepts offers preservative-free influenza vaccine for individuals who have concern about thimerosal or mercury.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (ghee-YAN bah-RAY) and TIV Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) has an annual incidence of 10-20 cases per 1 million adults. It is a disease whereby the body begins attacking its own nerve cells resulting in muscle weakness and paralysis. Substantial evidence exists that multiple infectious illnesses, most notably Campylobacter jejuni gastrointestinal infections and upper respiratory tract infections, are associated with GBS. It is an extremely rare side effect and currently, one in every 1 million people is at risk for this disease.
Heritage Health Concepts accepts cash, check, credit and debit cards as payment forms. We do not accept insurance; however, upon request, we will be happy to provide you with a receipt which you can use to file with your insurance company.
If you have questions about whether or not the flu shot is right for you, talk to your doctor. For additional information, visit the website for the Center for Disease Control.
*This information is compiled from the Center for Disease Control and represents statistics over the last several years ( http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/disease.htm )..