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Understanding the Critical Role of Vaccinations — Insights from a Rabies Incident in Alabama

The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends vaccinations for children as a key strategy in preventing various communicable diseases.

Recently, an incident occurred in central Alabama where a young kitten died from rabies. This event, taking place in Autauga County, has brought to light the crucial importance of vaccinations for pets and children.

The Reality of Rabies and Vaccination Necessity

Rabies is a deadly virus that can affect both animals and humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rabies in pets poses a significant risk to humans, especially in areas where wildlife rabies is common. In this situation, the kitten’s diagnosis and subsequent death underscore the potential dangers of unvaccinated pets.

The Broader Implications for Public Health

Vaccinations are a cornerstone of public health. The World Health Organization (WHO) states vaccinations prevent 2–3 million deaths yearly. This statistic highlights the broader implications of the Alabama incident, demonstrating the importance of vaccinations in preventing diseases in animals and humans.

Vaccinating Children: A Public Health Priority

While rabies in humans is rare in the U.S., the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends vaccinations for children as a key strategy in preventing various communicable diseases. The role of vaccinations in children’s health cannot be overstated. Vaccinating children protects them from specific illnesses such as measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough, and polio. Once common and often deadly, these diseases have been significantly reduced or nearly eradicated in populations with high vaccination rates.

Vaccinating children contributes to the broader concept of herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when a significant portion of a population becomes immune to a disease, thereby reducing its spread. This is particularly crucial for protecting individuals who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons, such as allergies, immune system disorders, or age restrictions. Infants, for example, who are too young to receive certain vaccinations or individuals undergoing chemotherapy, rely on the immunity of those around them to stay safe from these diseases.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide comprehensive immunization schedules tailored to protect children at various stages of their development. Following these schedules is vital for ensuring that children receive their vaccinations at the most appropriate and effective times.

CDC recommended immunizations for children from birth through 6 years old (LINK)

In addition to protecting individual children, vaccinations play a critical role in maintaining public health. Outbreaks of diseases preventable by vaccines can occur when vaccination rates drop. These outbreaks pose a risk to unvaccinated children and the community at large, including those who are vaccinated, as no vaccine offers 100% protection.

By adhering to recommended vaccination schedules, we can ensure the health and well-being of future generations and continue the fight against preventable diseases.

The Consequences of Neglecting Vaccinations

The loss of the kitten to rabies due to a lack of vaccination is a stark reminder of the risks associated with inadequate vaccination practices. This narrative parallels the risks faced by unvaccinated children, who are more susceptible to preventable diseases.

A Call to Action

This story should encourage pet owners to vaccinate their pets against rabies, as mandated by law in many states. Similarly, it’s a reminder for parents to ensure their children are up to date with their vaccinations, following the recommended immunization schedules.

Preventive Measures Beyond Vaccination

The Alabama Department of Public Health recommends several measures to prevent rabies exposure, such as confining pets and avoiding contact with wild animals. These preventive strategies are crucial in complementing the role of vaccinations.

Embracing Our Role in Public Health

The rabies case in Alabama reminds us of our collective responsibility in public health. Ensuring pets and children are vaccinated is not just a legal requirement but a public health necessity. This story underscores the importance of comprehensive vaccination and preventive health measures.

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Sources

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Rabies.”
  2. World Health Organization (WHO). “Vaccines and Immunization.”
  3. American Academy of Pediatrics. “Immunization.”
  4. State Rabies Vaccination Laws.
  5. Alabama Department of Public Health. “Rabies Prevention.”
  6. Rabies post-exposure guide

Embrace the New Year By Prioritizing the Health and Well-being of Our Children

It’s time to celebrate the arrival of another new year! As 2023 comes to an end, 2024 brings new starts and ambitions. Many people will kick start the new year with a resolution, with most choosing to prioritize their families’ health and well-being. But you don’t need to wait until midnight to focus on healthier choices. With the influenza season in full swing, one of the most effective ways to ensure your family remains free of illness is through vaccination.

Keeping up with vaccinations has been essential in preventing and controlling infectious diseases for decades. They are a cornerstone of public health efforts, contributing to the overall well-being of communities.

Unfortunately, according to the CDC, flu vaccination coverage for all children six months to 17 years of age is 3.6 percentage points lower than last season (43.3% compared with 46.9%). For pregnant women aged 18 to 49, Overall coverage at the end of November 2023 (33.8%) is 2.2 percentage points lower compared with coverage at the end of November 2022 (36.0%).

This lower coverage leaves children vulnerable and susceptible to risks from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications. As we enter the new year, ensure that your children are up-to-date on their vaccinations so you can avoid serious outcomes, including pneumonia.

It’s easy to stay up-to-date with your child’s vaccinations. All you have to do is consult a healthcare provider who will offer guidance on when children should receive specific vaccines. Health Hero Tennessee partners with organizations to establish community clinics and create tailored onsite clinic immunization programs that can scale according to needs.

Discussing vaccination with a healthcare provider can also help alleviate any hesitancy. Parents and caregivers need to seek information from reliable sources and engage in open conversations with healthcare professionals. Dispelling myths and addressing concerns can contribute to a better understanding of the importance of vaccinations in safeguarding children’s health.

Vaccinations not only protect those who received a shot but also create a barrier that contributes to community immunity. By achieving high vaccination rates, we create a barrier that limits the spread of infectious diseases, protecting those unable to receive vaccines due to age or medical reasons.

The science of vaccine development continues to evolve, with ongoing research aimed at improving and developing new vaccines. Since the 1980s, vaccinations have prevented about 2.5 million deaths per year in the United States, according to Statista. This study also shows that vaccines have significantly reduced the rate of child mortality. They are also responsible for helping to eradicate diseases like Polio and smallpox. Pertussis no longer kills one out of every 100 infants hospitalized with whooping cough. Finally, the Haemophilus Influenza B vaccine has successfully prevented the infection, harm, or incapacitation of over 10,000 children annually. Staying informed about the advancement in vaccines allows parents and caregivers to make informed decisions about their children’s health.

As 2023 ends and we embark on the journey of improving our health and well-being into 2024, it’s important to prioritize the health and safety of our children. Vaccinations can help achieve your health goals by providing a fighting chance against preventable diseases. Building your child’s immunity will extend beyond individual protection and create a barrier for entire communities. We can ensure a healthier and safer 2024 for our children and the years ahead by staying informed, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and maintaining vaccination schedules.

Here’s to a new year focused on the health and protection of our children!

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Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Weekly Flu Vaccination Dashboard

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Prevent Seasonal Flu

Statista: Vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. — statistics & facts

Jingle All the Way to a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season with Safety Tips for Air Traveling

It’s the busiest time of year, with millions of Americans preparing to travel for the holidays. For many, travel can be exhausting and take its toll on your body. This weakens the immune system and leaves you vulnerable to falling ill when you’re hoping to spread holiday cheer. It doesn’t help that airplanes can be a breeding ground for germs that can easily latch onto you.

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Health Research found that people were 113 times more likely to catch the common cold during a flight than standard ground transmission. Another study conducted by TravelMath, found that tray-table surfaces had more than eight times the number of bacteria per square inch than ‌bathroom flush buttons.

The trays reportedly had 2,155 colony-forming units of bacteria per square inch, compared to the 127, which is normally found on a standard toilet seat at home, according to the National Science Foundation. It’s also possible that deadly bacteria, including E. coli, can live on airplane surfaces for up to a week.

These studies conclude that in confined spaces like airplanes, it’s easy for passengers to come out of their flight feeling a bit ill. So don’t let the Grinch steal your festive spirit! Take proactive steps to safeguard your well-being and ensure a healthy holiday season.

To avoid getting sick this holiday travel season, use sanitizer wipes to clean frequently touched surfaces, such as tray tables, armrests, and seatbelts. This can help significantly reduce the risk of encountering harmful bacteria. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the washroom and before eating. You can support your immune system by staying hydrated throughout your flight. This method helps flush out toxins and improves your body’s natural defenses. You can also try to snag the window seat, which helps limit your exposure to aisle traffic and allows you to take advantage of the plane’s wall. This helps reduce the chance of direct contact with fellow travelers.

While all these steps are great in reducing the chance of getting sick, there is still one more thing that can help strengthen your immune system and ensure your body is ready to hit the air, and that’s with vaccinations. Routine vaccinations, such as influenza, can improve your health and the community’s health. Before heading out this holiday season, confirm if you are up to date with your vaccinations, as it can serve as a baseline for overall protection against the germs you may encounter at the airport.

Depending on where you are traveling, consider getting vaccines that address unique health risks associated with certain destinations. Diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and yellow fever can be threats in specific regions of the world. By taking the necessary precautions and getting vaccinated against these risks, you add an extra layer of defense against potential health hazards during your travels.

If you’re traveling with young ones, consider their vaccination schedule as well. Children’s immune systems are still developing and being exposed to a high-germ environment does leave them very vulnerable to getting sick. Check with your pediatrician to confirm that your child’s immunizations are current, or if they are old enough to receive a vaccine, and discuss any additional immunization that may be recommended based on your destination.

In addition to personal health measures, it’s essential to prioritize mental well-being during holiday travel. The stress and rush of the season, combined with the challenges of navigating crowded airports and managing tight schedules, can take a toll on your mental health, which can trickle down to your physical health. Ensure you take some time to rest and perform simple exercises to help during these stressful times. Doing this can contribute to a strengthened immune system and overall resilience to the flu.

By incorporating these health-conscious practices into your travel routine, you can maximize the joy of the holiday season while minimizing the risk of falling ill. Prioritizing physical and mental well-being ensures you arrive at your destination ready to celebrate with loved ones, creating lasting memories during this festive time of year. Safe travels and happy holidays!

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Sources:

National Library of Medicine: Health risks to air travelers

Science Direct: Air Travel: Effects of Sleep Deprivation and Jet Lag

Auburn University in Alabama study: Survival and Transmission of Selected Pathogens on Airplane Cabin Surfaces and Selection of Phages Specific for Campylobacter jejuni

Center for Disease Prevention and Control: Travelers’ Health

Creating a Germ-Free Future by Vaccinating Kids and Pets

Similar to humans, our little furry pets also carry a variety of germs that can cause us to get sick. Like our children, our pets closely interact with their environments, rolling around in the grass and dirt, and getting into all sorts of trouble. This results in our pets carrying some types of bacteria and viruses that can cause people to get sick. Young kids are more likely to catch infections from pets because they try to kiss them, take their food, and put their fingers in their mouths that may be contaminated.

One of the most common viruses shared between humans and pets is gastroenteritis, also known as a stomach bug. Symptoms dealing with this infection include lethargy, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea (potentially with blood), and weight loss due to fluid depletion. While not exclusive to all illnesses, gastroenteritis might be transmitted between dogs and humans through stool or even saliva. In the case of cats and salmonella, transmission can happen through litter boxes and as they freely move around the household.

Children and pets are both highly active and don’t understand the potential dangers surrounding them, which can make them vulnerable to infections and diseases. Children and pets love to explore their surroundings and touch what they can, which exposes them daily to a series of viruses. For parents, it’s important to create an environment that prevents infections from spreading.

To ensure the health and safety of infants and young children, it is important to have constant supervision whenever a child is in the presence of animals. Children shouldn’t kiss animals or put their hands, or any objects, into their mouths after their interaction. Whenever a child is finished playing with their pet, ensure you take them to wash their hands with soap and water. For pregnant women, it’s important to wash your hands before breastfeeding or preparing formula, and to keep children away from animals during their feeding times to avoid the risk of bites or injuries.

While most families own a cat or dog, some people also acquire other species as pets that can carry harmful germs. It’s recommended that children under 5 years old avoid contact with:

● Reptiles (lizards, snakes, and turtles)

● Amphibians (frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders)

● Backyard poultry, including baby chicks or ducklings

● Rodents (rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs)

Also, you are advised to be extra cautious when you take your child under 5 to a farm or petting zoo.

Vaccinations can be used as a protective shield against a range of infectious diseases, helping to safeguard the health of children and pets. Immunizations stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight back against specific pathogens. This prepares the body to take defensive action if a child ends up putting a dog’s toy in their mouth or they forget to wash their hands before touching their face. In the case of pets, vaccinations help contracting illnesses like rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and feline leukemia.

While we normally vaccinate ourselves to fight against diseases, it’s also important to get our pets immunized. By protecting our animals, we can create a safer environment for human-animal interactions.

Ensuring your children and pets are up to date on their vaccinations will help prevent germs from crossing over and ensure pregnant women, newborns, children under 5, and those with weak immune systems have a higher chance of fighting against illness. Beyond individual protection, vaccines contribute to creating the well-being of a community and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. By following the guidelines above, we can create a safer and healthier environment for both children and pets.

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Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Pets, Healthy People

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How to Stay Healthy Around Pets and Other Animals

Medline Plus: Gastroenteritis

How Parents Can Navigate Tennessee’s Rise in Influenza Cases

In recent weeks, Tennessee has experienced an uptick in influenza cases, prompting concerns among health officials and communities.

Tennessee is among a handful of states seeing high respiratory illnesses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Weekly Flu Report, 4% of people went to a doctor or nurse to get treated for flu-like symptoms the week of November 19th to the 25th, up from 3.6% the week prior, with Memphis/Shelby County Metro being hit the hardest.

This recent surge in influenza cases has sparked discussions about the importance of preventive measures, such as vaccination, especially for children more susceptible to the illness.

Influenza, better known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. When you become infected, the symptoms you experience can range from mild to severe, including fever, cough, sore throat, aches, and fatigue. The flu can also lead to serious complications, especially for those who are most at risk, such as the elderly, young children, and those who have underlying health conditions.

Predicting the intensity of the flu season is challenging, so it’s hard to say how intense and severe it will be. However, getting a flu vaccination is crucial for preventing the spread of severe respiratory illness.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones around you. Vaccination before or during the flu season can help combat prevalent strains and protect individuals and the community. It is also essential for parents to be aware of where and when their child can receive a flu vaccine.

Infection rates in children are the highest, making up 20 to 30 percent of cases annually. Pregnant women and infants under six months of age are at an increased risk of developing complications from the flu. Parents should encourage those around them, such as older siblings and other family members who may be around the baby, to get vaccinated to ensure a protective barrier.

Kids eight years and younger may need two vaccine doses to be fully protected. This is because their immune systems need to be fully developed, and these children are exposed to large settings such as schools where viruses can easily be transmitted. Along with receiving a vaccine, practicing good hygiene is essential. Regular handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer helps prevent the spread of flu viruses. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

If you are looking to get your child vaccinated, you can contact their pediatrician or other healthcare professional to request the flu vaccine for your children. Local hospitals, health clinics, retail stores, and pharmacies offer vaccines. Some schools may hold vaccination clinics.

Visit the Health Hero Tennessee website, which lists available clinics.

While it is important to get a flu vaccine in the fall before the virus starts spreading, it’s never too late to build protection. Even if it is the peak of flu season, getting vaccinated can provide valuable immunity and help mitigate the illness’s severity until the season’s end in February.

As Tennessee faces this rise in influenza cases, the need for vaccinations and good hygiene practices is important. By taking these steps, individuals can play a crucial role in curbing the spread of the flu and protecting their and their communities’ well-being.

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Sources:

CDC: Weekly Flu Report

CDC: Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2023–24 Influenza Season

National Foundations for Infectious Disease: Flu and Children

Giving the Gift of Health This Holiday Season

Tis the season filled with joy, warmth, and the spirit of giving. It’s also the perfect time to give a gift beyond the traditional wrapped present. This holiday, you can significantly impact your friends and family by giving the gift of vaccination. So, let’s unwrap the joy, the hope, and the collective triumph that vaccination has brought to our lives.

Vaccinations are among the most effective public health interventions, especially during the holidays when more flu cases appear. Tennessee is currently seeing flu cases rise as we approach the holidays, with the Center for Disease Control’s latest numbers showing that 4% of people went to a doctor or nurse to get treated for flu-like symptoms the week of November 12th to the 18th. That’s up from 3.6% the week prior.

Getting vaccinated has a profound significance on our family and friends, creating a safe and healthy environment around us. By choosing to get immunized, you build immunity against infectious diseases, foster community health, and, ultimately, save lives.

The Impact of Vaccination on Celebrations

The holidays are spent with family and friends from all over to celebrate. Unfortunately, because it’s a month filled with travel, the risk of getting sick increases. Feeling ill during the holidays can cast a shadow on the joyous occasion and put a damper on many of the activities you had planned. But if you’re prepared, you can eliminate the need to worry about infectious diseases such as the flu or COVID-19 through vaccination, ensuring you and everyone can enjoy the festivities without the constant worry of illness.

Ensuring you’re protected also contributes to the broader consent of herd immunity, building a stronger barrier for your family and your community. If a higher percentage of the population is vaccinated, we can limit the spread of diseases and help keep those who cannot receive vaccines due to age or medical reasons.

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better gift you can give yourself and your loved ones than the gift of good health.

Practical Steps to Gift Vaccination

Researching local clinics or healthcare facilities that offer vaccine services is a thoughtful gift for those around you. Make sure there is a convenient location with flexible schedules. Consider vaccination a thoughtful gift by researching local clinics or healthcare facilities, and make sure you understand the eligibility criteria and requirements for the vaccine you want.

Your little helpers around the house might be hesitant about receiving a vaccine. You can alleviate this pressure by sharing valuable information and letting them know they are helping to contribute to a culture of health. This demonstrates care to them and teaches them the importance of informed decision-making and responsible healthcare practices.

It’s Never Too Late for Vaccination

We may be in December, but that doesn’t mean you missed your immunization window. The CDC recommends vaccinating anyone six months and older to ensure they’re not at risk of severe illness or hospitalization. You can also plan and get a flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine or booster simultaneously. It’s important to note that the flu vaccine is continually updated to deal with the virus strain, reducing the risk by 40% to 60%.

Other Way to Stay Healthy

In addition to being updated on vaccines, don’t forget, there are other ways to stay healthy and spread the gift of health this season.

Practice good hygiene by regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve, and wash your hands afterward. Keep surfaces clean by regularly sanitizing and disinfecting them. If you feel unwell and experience symptoms related to the flu, stay at home.

The Most Precious Present Around the Holidays is the Time Shared With Loved Ones

This holiday season, let’s move beyond traditional gifts and prioritize the health and well-being of our loved ones and communities. Giving the gift of vaccination is a considerate way to help ensure everyone can participate in all the festive activities you have planned this time of year. Immunization safeguards individuals and creates a barrier against the transmission of infectious diseases, ensuring a more secure, joyous, and healthy season for all.

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Sources

CDC weekly flu data

CDC: Vaccine Effectiveness: How Well Do Flu Vaccines Work?

National Library of Medicine: Vaccines for the common cold

Understanding the Landscape of Community Immunity

Community Immunity is a public health concept that helps play a role in preventing and controlling the spread of diseases within a population. Community Immunity, also known as herd immunity, refers to a level of protection within a population that is sufficient to stop the transmission of a contagious disease, providing protection to individuals who may not be immune.

Understanding What Community Immunity Is

To achieve community immunity a significant proportion of the population becomes immune to a particular infection. This can happen through natural infection or vaccination. Once this immunity is achieved it can act as a barrier that will help to reduce the likelihood of a disease spreading within the community. Once there are enough people immune, it can protect those who are vulnerable or unable to get vaccinated, such as infants, elderly individuals, or those with certain medical conditions.

The level of immunity needed to achieve community immunity depends on the infectious agent. The more contagious a disease the greater number of people needed to be immune to stop the spread. This is determined by the basic reproduction number, which is defined as the average number of new infections caused by a single infectious individual in a completely susceptible population. The threshold for herd immunity is reached once enough people are immune to a disease, making it unlikely to spread.

Natural immunity or Vaccination. What’s the difference

Natural immunity results from an individual contracting and recovering from a disease. This process kickstarts the body’s immune response and leads to the production of antibodies for long-term protection. Vaccination uses a weakened or inactivated form of specific components to stimulate an immune response without needing to expose the body to the full disease.

The safest method of developing herd immunity is with vaccinations. Getting a vaccine offers a more controlled approach to achieving community immunity because it avoids complications associated with natural infection.

Vaccination against the flu not only protects the individual but also the community at large, indirectly protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, like young children or individuals with certain medical conditions. It’s important to note that for flu, unlike diseases such as measles, rubella, and polio, not all vaccinated persons are completely protected due to the aforementioned variable vaccine effectiveness. Therefore, community-wide high vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations by halting the transmission of the flu virus​​. (www.nfid.org)

The Importance of Community Immunity

There are many benefits to achieving herd immunity, including protecting those who are most vulnerable. Community immunity offers protection to those who can’t be vaccinated yet or those who are more susceptible to serious complications. Infants and others who are too young can’t receive vaccines, so having herd immunity helps to create a barrier of protection for them. This also provides protection for those who have certain medical conditions that contraindicate, and those with compromised immune systems.

Having a whole community protected also helps prevent and control outbreaks of infectious diseases. When a significant portion of the population is immune, the likelihood of an infected individual coming into contact with a susceptible individual decreases, reducing the potential for widespread transmission.

(source: National Foundation for Infectious Diseases)

Challenges In Achieving Community Immunity

For a population to attain community immunity, a high percentage of the population needs to be vaccinated. Not being vaccinated leaves pockets of susceptibility, allowing for outbreaks to occur. Tennessee actively addresses this by prioritizing accessible and affordable healthcare through initiatives like the Get Your Shot campaign. These campaigns are vital to helping the community obtain herd immunity and protect communities by reducing the spread of influenza through increased vaccination coverage.

The duration of Immunity can differ whether it was acquired through natural infection or vaccination. Some vaccines provide lifelong immunity, while others may require booster shots to maintain protection. Monitoring and addressing this is another essential aspect of maintaining community immunity.

What Examples Are There of Effective Herd Immunity

The scientific community has seen several examples of global efforts of community immunity that have eliminated diseases. Through widespread vaccination campaigns, the world has been able to significantly decrease polio cases. Vaccine hesitancy has unfortunately prevented some regions from completely eradicating the disease.

Measles and mumps are another highly contagious disease with the ability to spread through a population quickly. Recent outbreaks in parts of the world have highlighted the importance of getting vaccinated and maintaining high coverage so there is no resurgence.

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy

To be able to achieve community immunity, it’s important to address vaccine hesitancy. Tennessee provides accurate information about the safety and efficacy of vaccines, as well as dispel any myths or misinformation that’s preventing people from trusting vaccines.

Tennessee continues to engage with communities to understand any concerns and help address specific issues that can lead to vaccine acceptance. Tennessee also ensures easy access to vaccination services such as mobile vaccination clinics and outreach programs.

Overall, community immunity is a powerful tool in the fight against infectious diseases. It offers protection to individuals and communities, especially to those unable to get vaccinated. Achieving and maintaining high levels of immunity requires multiple steps that include vaccination, public health education, and addressing barriers to vaccine access. Through a commitment to ensuring vaccine equity, we can work towards a world where the threat of certain infectious diseases is significantly reduced, if not eliminated altogether.

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Sources

Nature.com: The herd-immunity threshold must be updated for multi-vaccine strategies and multiple variants

National Institute of Health: Herd effect from influenza vaccination in non-healthcare settings: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and observational studies

University of Oxford: Vaccine Knowledge

Traveling for Thanksgiving? Why Vaccination is Key

It’s one of the busiest travel times of the year. Millions of people are getting ready to hit the road, get on a plane, and navigate crowded transportation hubs.

While we all are excited to spend quality time with loved ones and friends, it’s essential to recognize the health risks that occur this time of year. Travel environments, such as airports and train stations, can be breeding grounds for viruses and bacteria, increasing the likelihood of illness. But it doesn’t stop there. The flu virus thrives during Thanksgiving time as more people are indoors. The virus can spread through various means, including airborne transmission through respiratory droplets, direct person-to-person contact, and contact with contaminated surfaces, making Thanksgiving the perfect time for it to strike.

According to the C.D.C., nearly 20,000 people were hospitalized with the flu last Thanksgiving. There were nearly 2,000 flu hospitalizations in the U.S. last week. Those most susceptible to the flu are those over 65, who most people typically travel to see this time of year. It is estimated that between 70% and 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older, and between 50% and 70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred among people in this age group. (CDC weekly influenza report)

Influenza, or the flu, will present itself with symptoms such as a sudden onset of high fever, persistent cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Other symptoms include runny or stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you suspect you have the flu, seeking medical advice is important, particularly for those in high-risk groups or with severe symptoms. There are steps to take to prepare for the holiday season and avoid passing the flu viruses on to family, friends, and those most vulnerable.

Preventative measures for viral infections involve general hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and avoiding contact with those infected. But the best way to ensure you don’t get sick or contract the flu is by getting vaccinated. It’s one of the effective ways to protect yourself and others as it’s designed to stimulate the immune system, helping the body recognize and combat the virus.

It’s also important to get vaccinated before traveling for Thanksgiving to ensure your body has built immunity. This will help safeguard individuals from falling ill and contribute to the collective effort to reduce the spread of the flu within communities. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated at least two weeks before. Experts also say that it’s safe to get vaccinated at least one week ahead of time. These periods will allow the body sufficient time to develop antibodies to fight the virus.

The annual flu vaccine is the best weapon against the seasonal flu virus. By taking this proactive step you will ensure that Thanksgiving is spent enjoying time with loved ones and free from worries of flu-related illnesses. Receiving a vaccine protects you and contributes to the well-being of your loved ones and the community.

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Sources

CDC: Estimated Flu-Related Illnesses, Medical visits, Hospitalizations, and Deaths in the United States — 2019–2020 Flu Season

CDC: Weekly Influenza Report

Northwestern Medicine: Flu: Who Is Most at Risk

Mayo Clinic: Influenza (Flu)

Protecting Expectant Mothers: The Critical Need for Flu Vaccinations During Pregnancy

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Did you know? Getting a flu shot can reduce the risk of hospitalization due to influenza by about 40% for pregnant women. This not only protects the pregnant individuals but also offers protection to their babies from flu illness during the first several months of life, when the infants are too young to be vaccinated themselves. (www.cdc.gov)

The flu season can be challenging for everyone, but it can especially present unique risks for pregnant women. Severe complications from the flu can arise for expectant mothers and their unborn children. The transformative period of pregnancy results in many physical changes, such as a weakened immune system, making it more susceptible to infections like the flu. There are also changes in lung capacity and heart function that could lead to hospitalization or, worse, if infected with the virus. A critical prevention measure that can safeguard maternal and fetal health is ensuring you receive a vaccination.

In this article, we will explain why getting a flu vaccination is a simple step in helping to reduce the effects of the flu virus and ensure you have a healthy and happy winter season. 

Receiving a flu vaccine during pregnancy offers benefits that help minimize the risk of needing hospitalization. Getting a flu vaccine is essential for pregnant women because it reduces the chances of potential complications that can be experienced from a severe flu infection, such as preterm labor and preterm birth. The flu’s effects on the respiratory system can also cause significant stress on a system already under strain from pregnancy due to the expanding uterus pressing against the diaphragm. Ensuring a mother’s health is protected helps safeguard the health of an unborn child. Protecting a mother’s health is an essential step in the well-being of a developing fetus, helping to ensure a positive birth outcome.

 

Protection from a vaccine doesn’t only help the mother, but it also ensures there is immunity for her baby. Getting vaccinated helps offer the unborn child ‌crucial defense during the early, vulnerable stages of infancy and protects for the first few months of life. Becoming infected with the flu has the potential to cross the placenta and infect the developing fetus and as a result, lead to complications like birth defects. Vaccinations help to reduce these issues and ensure a full-term, healthy pregnancy, as well as provide a protective barrier for reducing the risk of fetal infection.

 

There are always concerns about what you put into your body as an expecting mother, especially regarding vaccines. However, it’s essential to understand that vaccines for the flu have been thoroughly studied, and rigorous testing has been done that has demonstrated their safety in pregnant women.

Flu shots have been given to millions of pregnant women over several decades with a good safety record. It’s even safe for postpartum women, even if they are breastfeeding. The flu vaccine is inactivated, meaning it contains no live virus, and it has been administered to pregnant women for decades without adverse effects.

 

Flu season typically has an expansive window that spans from October to May. To ensure you receive the maximum protection, you should consider getting a vaccination during the early stages of your pregnancy. Although getting ahead is essential, it is never too late for a pregnant woman to get the flu vaccine, as it can provide significant benefits even if administered later in the season.

Overall, getting vaccinated is essential in protecting yourself, your unborn children, and your family’s health. It’s always important to take preventive measures to help maintain a healthy pregnancy and a positive birth outcome.

Pregnant women need to have open and honest discussions with their healthcare providers about vaccinations, as they can provide personalized guidance based on the individual’s medical history and specific circumstances. Addressing concerns or questions about vaccines during pregnancy is essential to the decision-making process. The healthcare provider can provide accurate information, discuss potential risks and benefits, and tailor recommendations to ensure the mother’s and baby’s health and well-being.

In addition to vaccination, adopting other preventive measures is crucial to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. This includes maintaining a well-balanced diet, staying physically active as your healthcare provider recommends, managing stress, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances. Combining vaccination with these measures creates a positive approach to supporting a healthy birth outcome and ensures the family’s long-term health.

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Sources

CDC: Influenza (Flu) Vaccine and Pregnancy

ACOG: Influenza Vaccination During Pregnancy

World Health Organization (WHO): Influenza vaccination of women during pregnancy

Does Everyone Need a Flu Vaccine? Unpacking the Facts ✅

As the winter season approaches, it’s crucial to understand the risks associated with illnesses like the flu. How can you safeguard yourself? One option is to consider getting a flu vaccine, although misconceptions surround this choice. In this article, we will delve into the advantages, drawbacks, and misunderstandings of receiving a flu vaccine. We’ll also discuss who should. Shouldn’t get vaccinated and provide tips on how to maximize its effectiveness. By examining all the facts, readers can decide whether to opt for a flu vaccine this season.

 

Getting vaccinated against the flu can prevent an estimated 7.5 million influenza illnesses and 3.7 million influenza-associated medical visits each year.

Getting a flu shot is a way to safeguard yourself from falling ill. Some misconceptions make many people uncertain about getting vaccinated.

The flu vaccine provides protection against prevalent virus strains. Each year, scientists determine which virus strains will be most active and then create a vaccine accordingly. This ensures that those who choose to get vaccinated are shielded against viruses.

Get a flu shot to reduce the risk of flu-related complications, such as hospitalization or death. According to the CDC, up to 50% of hospitalized flu patients had no pre-existing health conditions. This means healthy individuals can suffer severe symptoms if infected with certain virus strains. By getting vaccinated, you can reduce your risk of encountering these symptoms and potential hospitalization or death caused by influenza.

The flu vaccine plays a role in protecting populations like young children and older adults who may have weaker immune systems or pre-existing chronic illnesses.

Individuals with weak immune systems are at higher risk of flu symptoms. Vaccination is crucial to prevent community outbreaks.

Getting a flu shot not only protects you from the flu, but it also protects your family and friends who may not be able to get vaccinated due to certain conditions or other factors. When more people in a community get vaccinated, it creates herd immunity which helps prevent the spread of influenza and increases protection for everyone involved. So, it’s important to get vaccinated to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy.

 

Flu season is in full effect, and understanding who should get a flu vaccine is important. Generally, everyone aged six months or older can get vaccinated against the virus. People who are at higher risk for severe complications from the flu include pregnant women, seniors, individuals with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or heart disease, children under five years old, and healthcare workers dealing with high-risk patients. These people must receive a vaccination.

There are some groups of people for whom a flu shot should not be administered. These include anyone who has had anaphylactic reactions to previous doses of the influenza vaccine or any of its components, infants younger than six months old, those suffering from a moderate or severe illness during vaccination, and individuals with an egg allergy (since many vaccines contain egg proteins).

Consider your health needs before getting vaccinated against the flu. Your doctor or healthcare provider can advise you on whether you are eligible for vaccination and if it is safe for you to do so. Even if you don’t fit into one of the higher-risk categories mentioned above, getting vaccinated against the flu can still protect yourself and those around you from serious illness caused by this virus.

 

One of the biggest misunderstandings surrounding the flu vaccine is that it only guards against specific types of influenza. In actuality, this vaccination works to protect against multiple viruses — both A and B — and can be effective in reducing the severity of symptoms if you do come down with a strain. Even if a given variety isn’t included in the shot, you still have some protection from other virus forms.

Another common misconception is that receiving a flu shot will make you unwell or give you influenza. This simply isn’t accurate; while there might be minor side effects like redness, soreness, or swelling at the injection site, these are not indicators of sickness but merely prove that your body is creating antibodies to fight off future infections. It’s also essential to appreciate that no vaccine is 100 percent successful, yet getting a flu shot provides some safeguards against more serious issues should you contract the virus.

Remember how important herd immunity is when attempting to thwart widespread outbreaks; by vaccinating yourself and others around you, you can help protect those unable to be immunized due to medical reasons or age restrictions (infants younger than six months old). And by taking all necessary precautions against contracting this contagious illness — such as frequent handwashing — we can assist in keeping our communities safe from the disease this season.

 

When it comes to the flu vaccine, understanding the risks of receiving one is essential. For most people, minor side effects such as soreness, redness, swelling at the injection site, fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue should subside within a few days. It’s important to note that although the flu vaccine can protect against multiple strains of influenza virus, it does not guarantee complete protection from illness due to circulating viruses that may differ from those included in the vaccine.

For those with egg allergies, getting their flu shot from a healthcare provider who can monitor for potential allergic reactions is recommended. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions (such as weakened immune systems) or who take medications regularly should consult their doctor before vaccination to ensure they can receive it safely without any adverse effects.

Severe allergic reactions after a flu shot are infrequent but possible. They may indicate anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention if symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives, dizziness, and/or weakness occur. All available flu vaccines in the United States contain only inactive viruses that cannot cause influenza illness, even though some may contain weakened forms of live viruses that cannot reproduce in humans or cause infection — making them safe for everyone aged six months and older including pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions like asthma or diabetes.

Overall, while there are risks associated with receiving a flu vaccine, they are typically outweighed by the benefits when compared to contracting an actual case of influenza — since this can lead to more serious complications involving pneumonia or hospitalization due to dehydration or other illnesses caused by influenza viruses.

 

For optimal protection against influenza, it’s importantl to receive an annual flu vaccination. Before getting vaccinated, consult your healthcare provider regarding any allergies or medical conditions that may prevent you from receiving the vaccine.

Additionally, those with weakened immune systems due to underlying health issues or medication should take extra precautions to reduce potential side effects. The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get a flu shot before peak flu season in October or November; however, even if done later, the vaccine still offers benefits as long as influenza viruses are circulating in the area.

For adults 65 years of age and up at higher risk for severe illness from influenza, a high-dose vaccine containing four times more antigen than standard-dose vaccines is recommended. Even after receiving a flu shot, one must practice good hygiene habits such as washing hands regularly and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces to help reduce germs throughout communities during peak periods.

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Sources

CDC: Who Should and Should Not Get a Flu Vaccine

10 Flu Myths

CDC: Season Flu Vaccines

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