Seasonal Flu

We are currently out of VFC flu vaccine (includes Medicaid, Chip, uninsured, and insurances that don't cover the flu vaccine.)

The flu virus "drifts" and "shifts" constantly, which is why we immunize year after year. This year, we have been receiving sporadic shipments of flu vaccine because of the simultaneous manufacture of the H1N1 and regular flu vaccine. We are prioritizing our patients who receive the flu vaccine according to their risk factor and how long they have been on our waiting list. If you have concerns about your child’s health or think they may have influenza, please contact one of our offices to make an appointment with a provider.

The flu virus usually hits heavily between December and March. Generally, school-aged children are the first group to contract flu. They take it home and to places where they interact with other kids..

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. The influenza virus usually enters the body through mucus membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes. The flu is transmitted by respiratory droplets that often become airborne through sneezing or coughing.

Some people, such as older adults, young children, and people with specific health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. In extreme cases, complications can lead to death. On average in the United States each year: 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications; and about 36,000 people die from the flu.

Symptoms of influenza include fever, muscle aches, headache, congestion, runny nose, cough, sore throat, and general weakness. These symptoms usually appear 1 to 3 days after a person has been exposed to the virus.