OccuMed Recognizes National Influenza Vaccination Week

Online, January 14, 2010 (Newswire.com) - The freezing cold temperatures last week reminded us that we are right in the middle of winter, and that also means we're in the middle of flu season. According to Lloyd Robinson, MD, of OccuMed/Robinson & Associates, a family practice and occupational health clinic, the best protection from the headache, fever, chills, dry cough and body aches associated with influenza is the flu vaccine. He further explained that the flu is a serious disease of the nose, throat and lungs that can lead to pneumonia.

Dr. Robinson said the influenza vaccine is specifically recommended for people who are at high risk for developing serious complications as a result of influenza infection, but any adult who wishes to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with influenza should receive a flu shot.

"Although the best time to receive the flu vaccine is October or November prior to the onset of flu season, getting the shot now can still be effective since flu season continues well into the spring," the physician said. "You can save yourself a week of feeling lousy and missing work or family activities."

Since the flu virus continually changes, and each year's vaccine includes the most current virus strains, Dr. Robinson said one should receive an updated flu shot every year. In addition, he said the vaccine only provides protection for about six months.

"Although the flu shot will not cause the flu, some people do experience soreness or redness at the injection site and a slight fever or minor muscle aches," he said. "It is important to note that a person can still obtain a different strain of the flu than what the vaccine contained-the vaccine only protects against the most common strain of that year."

Flu shots are available at OccuMed and at most physicians' clinics as well as the local health department. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those who are allergic to eggs (eggs are used in making the vaccine), are very ill with a high fever, or have had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine in the past, should not receive this protection without first consulting with a physician.

H1N1vaccination is not currently available at OccuMed, but should be available at the local health department.

No appointment is necessary at OccuMed to receive the seasonal flu vaccine, and the charges can be filed on your insurance. For more information, call the practice at (901) 345-6700.

by Alison Eidson, Practice Manager
OccuMed