Flu Shots for 2013 Updated Information

The WSJ today recommends flu shows now – not later.  The shots take several weeks to build the immunity to the maximum, so one should not wait until flu season arrives to get the shot.

1.      shots in many areas are available at pharmacies and are fast and inexpensive, or free with Medicare or supplemental Medicare policies

2.      children over 6 months should get their flu shots as well

3.      trivalent shot is the one used by most in the past

4.      quadrivalent shot picks up a 4^th type and is recommended for children

5.      fluzone  shot – a more powerful shot, recommended for people over 62

6.      flublock shot  -- a new one, this is the first year, for people with egg allergies but only for ages 18 to 49

Personally, I had the fluzone shot last year, and didn’t get the flu of course.  I have had the shots for years, no side effects whatsoever.  I get mine at Walgreens.

WSJ article says 20% of the US population get the flu every year, with type B being the most common.  So this is not something any of us can ignore.  Last year only 42% of adults got the shot, and only half the children from age 6 to 17.  My recommendation:  get your flu shot in the next week or so.