WELLNESS CONNECTION ·

Flu Update, 2010-2011: The latest information from the CDC and WHO

Presented by the medical team at California Health & Longevity Institute

October 29, 2010 - 12:30PM

The seasonal flu recommendations made annually by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) have changed this year. For the first time ever, influenza vaccination is recommended for all individuals age 6 months and older. In previous years, people between 18 and 50 years old were only recommended to receive the flu shot if they were in a high-risk category. What does this change mean to you and your family?

Vaccination reduces the chances of contracting influenza by 70�90% in healthy adults and can limit complications for the elderly and young children. Siobh�n Palmer, Chief Operating Officer in the medical facility at California Health & Longevity Institute, recommends �Even if you are a healthy adult, the flu shot is a good idea, for your protection and for that of the young and elderly in your life that could be affected if you were to get the flu.� Vaccination helps not only prevent the illness itself, but it can also reduce visits to the doctor and lost work days.

While flu season generally peaks in January and February for the U.S., flu activity spans from September through May each year. The 2010-2011 vaccination formula is designed to protect against the three most commonly expected viruses to cause disease through the season.

�Another common concern that I hear from my patients about taking a flu vaccination is the mercury content� reports Dr. Phillip Barr, Clinical Director at the Institute. As a reference point, mercury content in fish is measured as parts per million (ppm). The World Health Organization (WHO) �allows� 30 mcg or .35 ppm of mercury for a 155 lb adult. The mercury content in a common vaccine, such as Fluvirin, contains 25 mcg or .29 ppm per 0.5 ml dose. Comparatively, some of the most common fish we eat, orange roughy, halibut and wild salmon contain .54 ppm , .25 ppm and .01 ppm respectively in a 3 oz. standard serving size.

While flu shots remain popular, there is also a nasal-spray vaccine available that contains weakened live viruses. Between these two options, one should suit your family. Take this simple yet powerful step to protect your health, and that of your loved ones, this flu season by getting vaccinated.

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