That's the message from Dr. Tom Safranek, state epidemiologist for the Nebraska Health and Human Services System. It's real timely because we've just had our first flu cases reported so far this season. Dr. Safranek said a half dozen cases of flu have been reported from Douglas and Sarpy counties, with scattered cases from other parts of the state, both A and B types. The body develops protective antibodies from the vaccine about two weeks following the shot. The influenza season normally reaches its peak in January and February.
People get together over the holidays and the virus spreads.
Getting immunized is especially important for people age 50 and older and anyone with certain health problems, such as heart, lung and kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, anemia, and severe asthma. Immunization is recommended for children who are on continuous aspirin therapy. It is also recommended for pregnant women who will be in their second or third trimesters of pregnancy during the flu season, and for pregnant women with medical conditions that place them at increased risk of complications. Family members or others who provide care to high-risk persons should also be vaccinated. Getting immunized is a good idea for anyone who wants to avoid influenza and its complications.