How important is the flu shot? Vaccine effectiveness reports are in
It is about a 1 in 3 chance the flu shot will keep you out of the doctor’s office this year, but experts say you should still get it.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates in its most recent report that the flu vaccine is effective 36% of the time.
For comparison, in the 2014-2015 season the vaccine was 19% effective and in 2015-2016 it was 48% effective.
The effectiveness is dependent on the strain of the virus. About 72 percent of all samples of the virus have been the H3N2 strain, in which the vaccine effectiveness rating drops to 25%.
This strain is also the primary cause of illness in Mississippi according to MSDH.
The vaccine’s effectiveness estimate jumps to 59% when used on a child. And with 97 pediatric flu deaths nationwide since October 1, the FDA reminds parents it is not too late to vaccinate their children 6 months of age and older.
However, the flu shot is not for everyone. Children younger than 6 months old and people with severe allergies to the flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine cannot get the flu shot.
The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) reported the second confirmed pediatric influenza death in the state for the 2017-2018 flu season last week.
Even in a good year, the flu vaccine is never as effective as other vaccines, but it is still the most recommended preventative measure.
In a press briefing last week, the Secretary of Health and Human Services explained that while the flu shot may not protect against every ache and sniffle, it will prevent more severe, life-threatening cases of the virus.
However, the CDC reports that less than half of U.S. adults and children were vaccinated in the 2016-2017 flu season.
A C.D.C. study published in the journal Pediatrics shows that two-thirds of the 675 children and teenagers who died of the influenza virus between 2010 and 2016 were not vaccinated the year they died.
Additionally, people with egg allergies or Guillain-Barré Syndrome should consult with their doctor before getting the flu shot.
One reason experts say the flu season is still running rampant is that people do not know when they are contagious.
According to webmd.com, individuals are contagious 1 day before signs of symptoms and stay viral up to 7 days after symptoms arise. Kids may be able to spread the virus even longer.
The CDC urges individuals to stay home from school or work if they come down with the flu. But with state testing around the corner, local teachers are struggling with attendance and their own health.
Hub City TV reporter Angel Morris spoke with Kayla Johnson of Moffitt Health Center about the best measures to take to keep a home and classroom flu free. Listen to the full interview below.
Most cases of the influenza virus can be cured with rest and plenty of fluids. Young children and individuals over 65 years of age are at an increased risk of complications and hospitalization.
To prevent pneumonia and more dangerous illnesses, Harvard Health suggests calling the doctor if one:
Starts to feel unusually short of breath
Starts to cough up yellow, green or brown mucus
Starts to get a sharp pain in the chest every time he or she takes in a deep breath
Gets a bad earache
Has a fever above 103 degrees Fahrenheit
Starts to feel lightheaded, or actually passes out
Has a serious chronic disease like heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease or diabetes, or has medical conditions or takes medicines that suppress the immune system
