Flu Season Is Around The Corner – Replenish Your Flu Vaccine Supply

By Author: G Cowan
Total Articles: 1
Comment this article

Flu season starts in October – just a few months from now. Although summer is still in full swing, now is the time for healthcare providers to prepare by ordering an adequate supply of flu vaccine.
Why flu vaccine supply matters.

The flu is a very unpredictable virus. Flu season typically lasts from October through January, but in some years, severe outbreaks have been reported well into February. And although thousands of people die each year due to complications linked to seasonal flu, many still avoid getting vaccinated, thinking the flu is “no big deal.” Despite the efforts of public health officials to educate people that influenza is a serious illness that can lead to complications like pneumonia, some still forego a flu shot. Statistics show that even very healthy people who rarely get sick can succumb to the flu virus and become seriously ill. That’s why it’s so important for healthcare providers to order adequate supplies of flu vaccine early in the season.

What are the symptoms of flu?

Flu symptoms and severity can range from a bothersome cough, sore throat, and body aches to ...
... a fever with chills, fatigue and nausea. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should stay home from work or school to avoid infecting others. Unfortunately, that practice on its own will not halt the spread of flu since the virus is highly contagious even before the onset of symptoms. According to the CDC, “Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick.” That’s just one more reason why getting a flu vaccine is so important.

Who benefits most from a flu vaccine?

In past flu seasons, there has been confusion about flu shot recommendations, with some thinking only high risk individuals like pregnant women and seniors should be vaccinated. All that has changed since expanded flu vaccination guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge everyone aged six months and older to get a flu vaccine. The reason is simple: Flu vaccine saves lives.

People 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, young children, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, chronic lung disease, neurological problems, or individuals with a compromised immune system are all at high-risk for catching the flu and are strongly encouraged to schedule an annual flu vaccine. A high-dose flu vaccine formulated for those aged 65 and older is also available for the upcoming flu season.

Overcoming the myths about flu vaccine.

With flu season rapidly approaching, health experts agree that getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the spread of the flu virus. Public health experts have long spread the message about the safety and effectiveness of the flu vaccine.

Each year the flu kills more people than all vaccine-preventable diseases combined. The easiest and most effective way to combat that statistic is to get vaccinated. Doing so can protect you, your loved ones, and your entire community from the flu. Encourage your healthcare provider to order ample supplies of flu vaccine and schedule your flu vaccine today.

G.Cowan is the author of this article on flu vaccine supply. Find more information, about flu vaccine supply chain here