October, 2006
| David L. Dickensheets, M.D. |
| INFLUENZA VACCINE |
Annual immunization against influenza A and B is the most effective method of preventing
infection. Studies with large populations have shown reduced complications, fewer doctor visits for
“colds”, fewer days off of work for illness, etc. Although we have all heard of people seemingly
catching the flu after immunization, there is no biological reason this should happen and is thought
to be a coincidence.
There are two kinds of vaccines: an intramuscular inactivated vaccine and a live-attenuated
intranasal vaccine. These vaccines are best given in October or November, but vaccines should
continue to be given to unvaccinated people until the end of the flu season in April. Immunity is
present about 2 weeks after vaccination.
For the 2006-2007 season, we will only be offering the intramuscular vaccine. Supplies of vaccine
from our distributor are coming in every few weeks. Although we anticipate having our usual supply
over the entire season, there may be delays. Please call ahead if this is the main reason for office
visit.
The adult patient groups for which the intramuscular vaccine is recommended are:
- chronic health conditions of the heart or lungs (including asthma), chronic metabolic
conditions such as diabetes, or immunosuppression - any age
- pregnancy in any trimester
- any person over 50
- healthy household contacts and caregivers of children age 0-5
- health-care workers and others who can transmit influenza to those at risk.
Soreness at the injection site is a common side effect from the intramuscular vaccine, but should
pass in a day or two. Fever, malaise, and myalgia type symptoms are much less common but also
can last for two days. The vaccine does contain a small amount of egg protein and should not be
given to anyone with severe egg allergy.
The current vaccine provides no immunity for avian influenza. Research is being done for vaccine
components that would be protective against these strains. Stay tuned for more information in this
area next year.
In short, the influenza vaccine is an effective vaccine recommended to many, but in actuality
makes sense to be given to anyone who desires it. Think about it, and call us if there are any
concerns or questions.
infection. Studies with large populations have shown reduced complications, fewer doctor visits for
“colds”, fewer days off of work for illness, etc. Although we have all heard of people seemingly
catching the flu after immunization, there is no biological reason this should happen and is thought
to be a coincidence.
There are two kinds of vaccines: an intramuscular inactivated vaccine and a live-attenuated
intranasal vaccine. These vaccines are best given in October or November, but vaccines should
continue to be given to unvaccinated people until the end of the flu season in April. Immunity is
present about 2 weeks after vaccination.
For the 2006-2007 season, we will only be offering the intramuscular vaccine. Supplies of vaccine
from our distributor are coming in every few weeks. Although we anticipate having our usual supply
over the entire season, there may be delays. Please call ahead if this is the main reason for office
visit.
The adult patient groups for which the intramuscular vaccine is recommended are:
- chronic health conditions of the heart or lungs (including asthma), chronic metabolic
conditions such as diabetes, or immunosuppression - any age
- pregnancy in any trimester
- any person over 50
- healthy household contacts and caregivers of children age 0-5
- health-care workers and others who can transmit influenza to those at risk.
Soreness at the injection site is a common side effect from the intramuscular vaccine, but should
pass in a day or two. Fever, malaise, and myalgia type symptoms are much less common but also
can last for two days. The vaccine does contain a small amount of egg protein and should not be
given to anyone with severe egg allergy.
The current vaccine provides no immunity for avian influenza. Research is being done for vaccine
components that would be protective against these strains. Stay tuned for more information in this
area next year.
In short, the influenza vaccine is an effective vaccine recommended to many, but in actuality
makes sense to be given to anyone who desires it. Think about it, and call us if there are any
concerns or questions.
| Serving Metro Atlanta with offices in: Cumming, Johns Creek and Roswell |
| Cumming Office: (678) 341-8035 Johns Creek Office: (678) 551-6970 Roswell Office: (770) 255-1069 |
| North Fulton Hospital |
| Northside Hospital Forsyth |
| Emory Johns Creek Hospital |
| MORE INFORMATION ABOUT VACCINATIONS |
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