Dr. D's October Medical Update

Posted: Friday, October 14, 2011 by Dr. Michael Dominguez

Dr. D’s Medical Update

At the Holy Cross Family Health Center we began providing flu shots during the month of September. Now that we’re in October, it is still a great time to get your flu shots. The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone over the age of 6 months to get a flu shot. So…if you are reading this…you need a flu shot.

Yes, that means you. The only exceptions are people with an allergy to eggs or if your doctor discourages it due to other health reasons. Those at greatest risk are children less than 5 years old, adults over 65 and pregnant women. Certain medical conditions also increase a person’s risk for having complications from the flu. Things like asthma, chronic lung disease (COPD, emphysema, cystic fibrosis), heart disease, kidney problems, liver problems, obesity and diabetes are included on the list. If you have one of these conditions, it is even more important to get your flu shot as soon as they are available.

Most have heard stories from people who say “I got the flu shot and I got the flu.” This is just not possible. The vaccine contains an inactive, or killed, virus—it can’t cause disease. Sometimes a person can get mild flu symptoms, but it is not the flu. Getting the flu can be much worse—even deadly—for those at risk. A flu shot received last year does not protect you from this year’s season. The shot lasts only 6-8 months, so if you received it previously, it will not protect you this season. This year’s shot is the same as last year, but you still need another to protect you.

Another group at high risk for getting very sick from the flu is infants younger than 6 months. Since they can’t receive the vaccine, it is very important for those who care for them to be vaccinated. This also includes the children who live with and around these children.

While we’ve been giving out flu shots to everyone who will take one, we’re also taking the opportunity to update tetanus and pneumonia vaccines. Everyone needs a tetanus shot every 10 years. The pneumonia shot is recommended for persons with chronic respiratory illness and diabetes. If you are younger than 65, one shot will be enough until you turn 65 and then you’ll need another.

For now, check with your doctor about getting the flu shot or go to your local pharmacy and inquire there. Getting the flu shot helps you, your family and the community.

Michael Dominguez, MD, FAAFP is board certified in Family Medicine. His office is located at Holy Cross Family Health Center, 590 N. General McMullen, 78228; phone: 210-249-0212.