Most physicians recommend that all individuals make the effort to get vaccinated this year, but advise that it's especially important for senior citizens as well as young children. Young children are often especially at risk for contracting the influenza virus, because they come into direct contact with children at school, on the playground and during extracurricular activities, making the spread of germs much more likely.
This year, there are a number of new options available for the influenza vaccination, some meant to make the vaccination more inclusive by eliminating common allergens, and others meant to ward off more strains of the virus. Here's an update on what's available for the 2013-2014 flu season.
New 4-strain vaccine
A new type of flu shot called the "quadrivalent vaccine" can now help protect against four separate strains of the influenza virus. Last year, the most potent vaccine included defenses against only three separate strains, which has been the standard in years past. Doctors are advising people who want this new flu shot to get inoculated earlier rather than later, however, because the supply may be limited (though individuals will still have access to the three-strain vaccinations).
Each year, the influenza virus mutates in order to fight the antibodies created in response to the vaccination. This means that the following year's vaccine needs to be that much more tailored to the new virus. A four-strain shot will give your children the best chance against both newer and older strains of the flu virus.
New methods that may be more kid-friendly
Traditionally, the flu shot was given with a long needle. Doctors and other medical professionals often prefer longer needles because of their ability to more easily tear past the layers of skin and reach the muscle below. This year, many doctor's offices and pharmacies are offering the option of a smaller, thinner needle that may be more gentle for children and older individuals who tend to bruise more easily. This new needle should only "prick" the skin, meaning the child will be less likely to experience the bruising and soreness typically associated with the flu shot.
For those who simply can't stand needles, a nasal spray vaccination is available, however, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advised that children below the age of 2 shouldn't receive the nasal spray version of the vaccine.
Egg-free vaccine options
One lesser-known fact is that the influenza vaccine is grown within eggs inside laboratories. This means that many individuals who are allergic to eggs have not been able to receive the benefits of the vaccinations. This year, and eggless version of the vaccine is now available on the market. Before opting for an egg-free flu shot, however, ask your doctor whether you or your child is a good candidate for this relatively new vaccine option.
In addition to new medications, there are also more places where parents and their children can choose to get vaccinated, making it more convenient. While you can still pursue the flu shot from your pediatrician, more pharmacies are now offering vaccinations, as are community centers and other local clinics. The CDC offers an online "Flu Vaccine Finder" where parents can simply enter their zip code and find the most convenient option.
With all the new offerings available, doctors are hoping that more individuals should be able to benefit from influenza protection this flu season. In the event that your child does contract the flu, many medications are available to ease symptoms and help him or her get better faster.
FLAVORx makes medicinal flavorings that can help children enjoy taking their medicine. Ask your pharmacist how you can get your child's prescription in his or her favorite FLAVORx flavor.
