Cold and flu season is far from over; in fact, it can last through mid-May.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza peaks in January or later, with almost 50% of cases occurring in February and 15% occurring in March. 

 

The first and most important step in preventing the flu is getting the seasonal vaccine.  Everyone six months and older should get immunized as soon as it becomes available; however, as long as flu viruses are still circulating, getting vaccinated can provide protection.

 

This is especially important for high-risk populations.  These include young children (six months or older); women who are pregnant; those with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease; and people age 65 or older.  It is also essential that healthcare workers and those who care for high-risk people get vaccinated to avoid spreading the flu.

 

Visit the Learning Resource Center (LRC) for Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, the most comprehensive immunization resource available.  The 12th edition of the “Pink Book” will be available in March.  This latest edition defines current principles and recommendations on vaccination, outlines immunization strategies for healthcare facilities, and provides information on vaccine safety.  It also contains updated immunization information for 12 diseases, including influenza.