2 Flu Types = 2 Shots
Protect yourself against the seasonal flu by following the same advice you may have followed last year: Get vaccinated.
You'll need two different vaccines this flu season -- one to protect against the seasonal flu, and a second to protect against 2009 H1N1 influenza. The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you against 2009 H1N1. Likewise, the 2009 H1N1 vaccine doesn't replace the seasonal flu shot.
For both flu types, symptoms may include fatigue, headache, fever, sore throat, muscle aches and dry cough. People with 2009 H1N1 also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
Seasonal flu cases can peak anytime from late December to early March. Though October and November are the optimal months for a vaccination against the seasonal flu, even December or January isn't too late to get a seasonal flu shot.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved several 2009 H1N1 vaccines, and they are currently offered in some states for certain people. Ask your doctor if the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is available. If it is, your doctor can tell you if you should receive it.
Seasonal Flu:
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
A seasonal flu vaccination is most important for:
- Children ages 6 months to 18 years old
- Adults ages 50 and older
- Pregnant women
- Anyone with certain chronic diseases
- Anyone who lives in a nursing home or other long-term care site
- Healthcare workers
- People who are in frequent contact with older adults or chronically ill individuals
2009 H1N1 Flu: Who Should Get Vaccinated?
For the 2009 H1N1 flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends providers first vaccinate these five key populations:- Pregnant women
- People who live with or care for children younger than age 6 months
- Healthcare and emergency services personnel
- People ages 6 months through 24 years
- Adults ages 25 through 64 who have certain chronic disorders or compromised immune systems
