December 2–8 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, established by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to highlight the importance of flu vaccination.
According to the US Department of Health & Human Services, flu season typically peaks in January and February, but it can start as early as October and continue as late as May. Because people with diabetes have a higher risk of complications from the flu, it is generally recommended that they receive a flu shot every year. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become effective.
According to reports, the flu season has started early this year, with high flu activity already being recorded in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas, and moderate activity being recorded in Georgia and Missouri. The good news, however, is that the circulating strains of flu virus are “a great match” for this year’s vaccine, according to government officials.
To find a location near you that is offering flu vaccines, type your zip code into the flu vaccine finder. And to learn more about the flu, including symptoms, treatment, and how to care for someone who has the flu, visit www.flu.gov.
This blog entry was written by Web Editor Diane Fennell.
