As of October 5, 2011, we have all types of flu vaccine available, including regular, preservative-free, and intranasal. Flu shots are given by appointment only. We have a limited number of "shot only" appointments in all three offices each weekday, and we will also be holding "flu clinics" on different dates in each of our locations. If your child is coming in for a regular appointment (e.g. a physical), we can give the flu shot at that appointment as well.
Please note, this year's seasonal influenza vaccine protects against the H1N1 virus as well as two other strains of influenza. Per CDC guidelines, if you child is 8 or younger and did not receive at least one dose of the flu vaccine last year, he or she will need two doses of vaccine at least 4 weeks apart this year.
According to 2011 CDC guidelines, a flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. However, it is especially important that the following groups get the vaccine either because they are at high risk for complications from the flu or they have close contact with someone who is at high risk: * All children younger than 5 years old, and especially those younger than 2 * Children from 6 months to 18 years old on chronic aspirin therapy * Close contacts and out-of-home caregivers for children younger than 6 months old (the flu vaccine is not currently approved for this age group and therefore the best way to protect them is by vaccinating their close household contacts and caregivers) * People of any age with chronic health problems including asthma, diabetes, sickle cell disease, heart disease, immune suppression, and chronic kidney disease * Close contacts of people with chronic health problems * Pregnant women * Healthcare workers * People who live in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities
