Greetings!
It is important that we all do everything we can to minimize our and our children's chances to get the flu. Everyone should be washing their hands frequently or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, covering your mouth with a tissue or, in a pinch, your elbow when you cough or sneeze and, of course, getting flu vaccination.
Influenza or "The Flu" is a viral illness that spreads across the world every year. Flu season in the Northeast of the United States tends to be from January to March, but occasionally will start earlier. Symptoms of the flu include fever, body ache, headache, sore throat, cough and fatigue. The flu can last 5-7 days, with people usually feeling the worst on days 2 and 3 of the illness.
It is important to note that the immunization that is now available includes protection for three strains of flu including H1N1 which is expected to return to our community.
Performance Pediatrics has a limited supply of flu vaccine. There is an inhaled (nose spray) version of the flu vaccine available for children older than 2 years who do not have asthma. We have a limited supply of this nasal vaccine and it will be offered as long as it is available.
Unfortunately we can not provide flu vaccine to anyone who is not a patient at Performance Pediatrics (including parents). Please contact your primary care provider to arrange to get a flu shot for other household members of your family who are not patients at Performance Pediatrics.
Lastly, for older children you may choose to get a flu shot at many pharmacies including CVS and Walgreen's. Be sure to call ahead to inquire about price and minimum age requirements for a particular clinic. In addition, many public schools and town health departments also offer flu vaccinations for children in grades 6 - 12.
Dr. McAllister is available to answer any questions. Call today to schedule an appointment for your child to be immunized against the flu.
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