Summer 2010
Volume 13 Number 2
PIP Bits: Influenza Immunization 2010
We have started to receive our annual supply of influenza vaccine, so we'd like to update you with new information and let you know what has changed.
The vaccine contains protection against three common strains of influenza, including H1N1. We will have supply of both the injectable and nasal spray vaccine. This year, a second dose of the vaccine is recommended for children:
- who have never had flu vaccine
- who had only one seasonal flu vaccine for the first time last year
- who have had no prior H1N1 vaccine
Children with the following conditions should not get the influenza vaccine:
- Egg allergies
- Active neurologic disorders
- Severe illness or an acute asthma flare (It's okay to get the vaccine if you only have a minor illness without a fever)
Children who are in the following at-risk categories should get that vaccine at their earliest convenience:
- Children younger than five years, but especially children younger than two
- Children with long-term health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, metabolic diseases like diabetes or blood disorders
- Children with underlying lung disorders like asthma, reactive airway disease or respiratory problems secondary to prematurity
- Any child on long-term aspirin treatment such as children with arthritis
- Any child who lives in a group home
- Any child with a weakened immune system due to drug treatment or an underlying immune disorder
Call your PIP clinic for an appointment to be vaccinated against influenza. Periodically we offer Flu Shot Clinics where we have extra staff on duty to administer flu shot.
