What's new with the flu vaccine?

It may be summertime, but it is never too early to start talking about flu season.  In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recently released a statement stating that the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) or the "nasal spray" flu vaccine should not be used during the upcoming 2016-2017-flu season.  This recommendation is also being supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Parents and children alike favored this vaccine because it did not involve a needle, however, recent data shows that this vaccine was only 3 percent effective against the flu last year.  In other words, this small amount of protection means that no protective benefit could even be measured. Also, this "protection" was many times lower then the "flu shot" which provided 63 percent vaccine effectiveness.

I know that no one looks forward to a needle, and that neither of these protection ratings are 100 percent, however it is still suggested that everyone 6 months and older receive an annual influenza vaccine.  Getting the flu is not pleasant for anyone, but it is especially harmful to those that are very young or the elderly.  These age groups have an increased risk of getting the flu and once sick, can have very serious effects.

So with this in mind, keep your eyes and ears open over the next few months.  Most medical offices receive their flu vaccines in late summer and early fall.  You and your children should get vaccinated around this time so that by the time the flu season does start, you are well protected.  Although no vaccine is 100 percent, a little protection can go a long way.

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