10-25-2020 Aging Resource Guide - Flipbook - Page 22
PREVENTION
FLU (INFLUENZA)
Stay up to date with local
information and reliable
resources from the
Carroll County
Flu Vaccination
Planning Committee
cchd.maryland.gov/flu
Influenza (flu) is a common, contagious respiratory illness caused
by influenza viruses. Flu viruses can cause mild to severe illness
and even death. People at highest risk of serious complications
from the flu are people 65 and older, infants and young children,
and people with other medical conditions.
You can help protect yourself and others from the flu with these
3 steps:
1. Get a flu vaccine every year.
You need to get a flu shot every year, because the vaccine changes
to fight the viruses most likely to be circulating. Also, protection
from the flu declines over time after you get vaccinated.
It’s best to get vaccinated every year in early fall so you are
protected through the flu season. Flu season can start in the
fall and usually peaks in January or February, but often lasts late
into the spring.
The flu vaccine is safe and effective. It is recommended for
everyone 6 months and older, with rare exception.
People 65 years and older should get a flu shot, not a nasal spray
vaccine. They can get any flu vaccine approved for use in their
age group. However, there are two vaccines designed specifically
for seniors. The high-dose vaccine (Fluzone) and the adjuvanted
flu vaccine are designed to create a stronger immune response
than regular flu vaccines. Both are now available in quadrivalent
form, to protect against four different flu viruses.
People who are 65 years and older should also be up to date
with a pneumococcal vaccination. Pneumonia can be a serious
flu-related complication that can cause death. You can get the
pneumococcal vaccine your provider recommends for you at
the same time you get a flu vaccine. You can also get the flu and
pneumococcal vaccines at most pharmacies.
22
2020 – 2021 Carroll County Bureau of Aging & Disabilities Resource Guide