It’s fall, and that means it’s time for your flu shot. The vaccine is recommended annually for everyone age 6 months and older. This year, there’s no excuse not to get one, says Bob Schmidt, PharmD, system director of Pharmacy at UHS. Dr. Schmidt explains that two new developments in the flu vaccine for the 2013–2014 season remove barriers that some people cite when choosing not to get vaccinated.
First, there is now a vaccine available that is safe for people with egg allergies.
Second, UHS has purchased a large supply of a new, more effective, quadrivalent vaccine that protects against four strains of the flu virus, as opposed to typical vaccines that only protect against three types. The quadrivalent vaccine will be available at all UHS locations.
“We think it offers the best protection for our patients and employees,” says Dr. Schmidt. “There are no reasons not to get vaccinated now.”
