It’s never too late to get a flu vaccine, says Shauna Gulley, M.D., an internal medicine and pediatrics physician in Parker. The typical flu seasons lasts through March in Colorado, and the H1N1 flu has been seen year-round, so getting a flu shot—which is designed to last up to a year—is a good idea at any time. Other tips include:
- Breast-feeding mothers should get vaccinated. This is the best way to get the flu antibodies to babies under 6 months old since they cannot be vaccinated.
- Get babies vaccinated as soon as they reach 6 months.
- If you are healthy and between the ages of 2 and 49, you can consider the flu mist nasal vaccine, which will provide protection from the flu without the discomfort of a shot.
- If you experience flu symptoms, contact your doctor quick. Antiviral medications (such as Tamiflu and Relenza) can reduce the time you’re sick—but only if they are administered within 48 hours of getting sick.
Due to a shortage in the flu vaccine, Parker Adventist Hospital is currently unable to provide flu vaccine clinics. Please check back for updated information on flu vaccine availability.