So far, this year's flu vaccine is well matched to the viruses circulating. Flu is not merely a nuisance. It leads to approximately 20,000 deaths and 110,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. annually. Flu vaccine does not cause the flu . However, a number of other viruses can cause symptoms similar to influenza.
Flu vaccine is very effective when the vaccine viruses and circulating viruses are well matched.
However, people who receive vaccine and subsequently develop a respiratory illness due to another virus may mistake it for the flu and blame the vaccine. There has been a lot of information in the media about antivirals. There is a concern that patients with flu-like symptoms, especially those with chronic health conditions, may develop serious bacterial infections. Treatment with antivirals is not a substitute for appropriate antibiotic therapy in these individuals. Administration of OPV to children who have previously received 2 doses of IPV or OPV also is acceptable for depletion of existing OPV supplies.