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| Little Miss Maggie (and Yue) waiting for their turn at the pedia. |
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| Vaxigrip, check! |
- Kids 6 months through 4 years old.
- Adults 50 years old and above.
- Adults and children with chronic medical conditions. (such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis, etc.)
- All women who are pregnant, are considering pregnancy, have recently given birth, or are breastfeeding during flu season.
- Residents of long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes.
- Persons who can transmit influenza to those at risk. (e.g., health care workers, household contacts, caregivers)
The best time to get the vaccine for influenza is before the start of the flu season. Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies (that protect against influenza virus infection) to develop in the body, it is recommended that people get vaccinated before influenza begins spreading in their community.
In the Philippines, the flu season coincides with the rainy season. It is best to get the vaccine during the summer months, between March and May. You may still get the vaccine outside these months, because getting a shot later in the season is still better than not getting the vaccine at all. The immunity lasts until the year's flu season (because of the change in the prevalent strains of the virus every year). Hence, the vaccine must be given every year.
Mommies, have your kids received their flu shots this year? Do you get flu shots, too?
I hate to say this but the only time I ever got the flu-and a really bad case of it-was when I got a shot. So now I take my chances-it seems I may have a natural immunity to that monstrous bug!
ReplyDeleteI was always against the flu shot but with my asthma now, it is a must. A cold or flu and can put me in the hospital and leave me in bed for a month or more trying to breathe.
ReplyDeleteGlad to say the kids got their flu shots already!:) You're such a great mom for always making sure your son is prepared for anything!
ReplyDeleteI am still on the fence whether I will get another flu shot. I still got sick this season don't know how much it's supposed to protect you.
ReplyDeleteMichelle F.
My husband is a physician in the US. He had a patient (who is also a family friend) two years ago who was not in any of the high risk categories. She got the flu and all its complications. She was hospitalized for several weeks -- the first few days were touch and go. Two years later, she has not completely returned to her pre-flu days, fatiguing easily. She is probably the world's greatest advocate for the flu shot!
ReplyDeleteI believe all children should get the flu shot so the flu is not spread. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWe are just ending flu season here.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it interesting that we go through stages? I used to volunteer for the Red Cross in the Dominican Republic, now I choose to not vaccinate my children. I am happy that you are doing what you believe in and what works for your family. :)
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely true , better safe than sorry and your flu shot day turn into an enjoyable family day.
ReplyDeleteI do not believe in giving my kdis the annual flu shot. We used to, but then I read a lot of research saying that their bodies don't need it. We've been off it for the past three years, and they just keep healthy by eating the right kinds of food.
ReplyDeleteOh, now I don't remember when was my last flu shot was! I know I didn't get one last year. And thankfully I didn't get sick or anything :D
ReplyDeleteNow I am thinking if I should get it this year. I think I am healthier just by eating the right food and drinking lots of water. :)
Oh, thanks for the reminder! We need to receive our flu shots before school opens in June. -- Tetcha
ReplyDeleteOur family gets vaccinated with flu shots once a year, usually mga May or June. It really helps talaga. :)
ReplyDelete<3 Dhadha | www.classysweets.com
getting a flu shot is very important for kids...
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