CDC Director Makes New Flu Shot Statement After Spike in Children's Deaths
As the number of child fatalities in the US climbs to 30 this flu season, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a simple—but urgent—request: Get your flu shot.
“My message is, if you haven’t gotten a vaccine, please get a vaccine. Also, please get your children vaccinated,” Brenda Fitzgerald, MD, says.
The CDC estimates that about 85 percent of the children who died did not get their flu shots. This year, a particularly severe strain of the flu, called influenza A (H3N2), is emerging as the most dominant. And flu activity has been reported in every state.
Fitzgerald worries people are forgoing the vaccine in light of news that it’s only 30 percent effective against this particular strain (it better protects against influenza B and another strain of influenza A, H1N1). For skeptics, she points to studies that show that even a vaccine with lower effectiveness can decrease the length and severity of your symptoms if you end up contracting the flu.
Remember, a flu shot is recommended for everyone over 6 months old. Children and pregnant women, in particular, have a high risk of flu-related complications because of their more vulnerable immune systems.
The main message here? It’s not too late to vaccinate. Flu season lasts through March. You can enter your zip code here to find a flu clinic near you.
H/T Reuters
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.