Preparing for flu season

Flu season is here, and  Healthnetwork has some valuable information for you . . .

There’s a chill in the air and the leaves are beginning to change throughout much of the country. This can only mean one thing: Flu season is upon us. Many pharmacies began administering flu shots as early as August to avoid the increasing frustration and vaccination shortages that accompanied last year’s “swine flu” (H1N1 virus) threat.

For the first time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend all individuals six months and older get a flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available this fall.

Most people will only need one shot, instead of two shots that were required last year. The CDC strongly recommends receiving vaccinations now instead of waiting until flu season is in full swing. It takes approximately two weeks to develop immunity and once this occurs, individuals won’t be as susceptible to receiving and transmitting this year’s three most anticipated flu strands: H3N2 virus, influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus. Flu vaccines are available at many local pharmacies or from your primary care physician.

Beyond annual flu shots, many adults fail to realize that vaccines received as a child don’t always protect them throughout their lifetime. See the immunization guide to the right. This fall, don’t forget to schedule necessary immunizations.

Immunization needs are also one of many topics discussed during an executive physical. In as little as one day, you will meet with a team of physicians and specialists for a comprehensive medical evaluation. The results may change your life — or possibly save it. Our hospitals understand your need for convenience and efficiency and they go out of their way to deliver just that. Call your Legatus Healthnetwork for more details.

Susan Locke, MD, is Healthnetwork’s medical director.

Healthnetwork is a Legatus membership benefit, a health care “concierge service” that provides members and their families with access to some of the most respected hospitals in the world. One Call Starts It All: (866) 968-2467 or (440) 893-0830. Email: [email protected]