Flu Facts

Influenza (flu) is a serious contagious respiratory disease that infects the nose, throat, and lungs and can lead to hospitalization and even death. It is caused by the influenza virus, which can be spread by coughing, sneezing, or nasal secretions. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. By getting the flu vaccine, you can protect yourself from influenza, and may also avoid spreading influenza to others.

What’s in the seasonal flu vaccine this year?

The seasonal flu vaccine contains 3 vaccine strains (H3N2, influenza B, H1N1); the same strains that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) selected for last season’s vaccine.

Why did the vaccine composition remain the same?

The viruses selected for the vaccine stayed the same because they continued to be the main viruses causing human illness worldwide.

Will I need to be vaccinated again since the vaccine composition is the same as last year?

Yes. People should get vaccinated every year even if the strains are the same because immunity to influenza viruses decline over time, and may be too low to provide protection after one year.

Will the Health Department be having flu clinics again this year?

Yes. The Health Department will be offering preservative-free flu vaccinations at clinics throughout McHenry County starting early September.

When will I be able to make an appointment?

The online appointment scheduling will begin during the first week of September.

When should I get vaccinated?

The CDC recommends people get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine becomes available, but vaccination can take place at any time throughout the influenza season. It takes approximately 2 weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza, and influenza seasons can begin as early as October.

Who should get a flu shot this year?

All people 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine. Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of severe influenza and their close contacts, including healthcare personnel and close contacts of children younger than 6 months.

Who should not be vaccinated against seasonal flu?

• ·         People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs.
• ·         People who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination.
• ·         People who developed Guillian-Barré syndrome.
• ·         Children younger than 6 months.
• ·         People who have a severe illness with a fever should wait until their symptoms lessen.

Where can I get more information on the flu vaccine?