AACE Advancing Immunization Quality Improvement Communication Platform-Flu Vaccine Indications

Flu Vaccine Indications - Education Material

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. There are different flu vaccines approved for different ages, so it is important to get a vaccine that is appropriate for your age. Inactivated injectable influenza vaccines (flu shots) are approved for people as young as 6 months old, while some vaccines are only approved for adults or specific age groups such as 18 years and older or 65 years and older. Flu shots are also recommended for pregnant people and individuals with certain chronic health conditions.<br /><br />However, there are some exceptions and individuals who should not receive the flu vaccine. Children younger than 6 months are too young to get a flu shot. People with severe, life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine should not receive it. Individuals with a history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) should talk to their healthcare provider about their GBS history before getting vaccinated. Also, if you are feeling unwell, it is important to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated.<br /><br />In terms of the nasal spray flu vaccine, it is approved for use in healthy non-pregnant individuals aged 2 through 49 years old. However, there are certain groups of individuals who should not receive the nasal spray vaccine, including children younger than 2 years old, adults 50 years and older, pregnant people, and individuals with severe allergies to the flu vaccine or any of its ingredients. Other groups that should not receive the nasal spray vaccine include those with weakened immune systems, certain respiratory conditions like asthma, recent use of influenza antiviral drugs, and individuals with specific medical conditions such as cerebrospinal fluid leaks or cochlear implants.<br /><br />For individuals with egg allergies, they can receive any licensed, recommended age-appropriate influenza vaccine. However, those with a history of severe egg allergy should be vaccinated in a medical setting under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can manage severe allergic reactions.<br /><br />For more information, individuals can visit the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov/flu or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.

Keywords

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influenza vaccination

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pregnant people

chronic health conditions

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

nasal spray flu vaccine

egg allergies