National Influenza Vaccination Week
by Ngozi Osuagwu, MD | December 6th, 2015
I know I have talked to you about getting the flu vaccine, however this is National Influenza Vaccination Week, so I felt you should be reminded one more time. The National Influenza Vaccination Disparities Partnership works with the CDC to get the message out that there are certain groups that are at increased risk for developing serious flu-related complications because of lower vaccination rates and health disparities related to chronic diseases and conditions. These populations include Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and American Indians/Alaska Natives.
The best prevention against the flu is a seasonal flu vaccination each year. Everyone aged six months and older should be vaccinated against the flu. It takes about two weeks after the vaccination to be fully protected.
Remember the flu is different from a cold.
| Symptoms | Cold | Flu |
| Fever | Sometimes, usually mild | Usual; higher (100 – 102 F); last for 3 to 4 days |
| Headache | Occasionally | Common |
| General Aches, Pains | Slight | Usual; often severe |
| Fatigue, weakness | Sometimes | Usual; can last 2 to 3 weeks |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Usual; at the beginning of the illness |
| Stuffy Nose | Common | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Usual | Sometimes |
| Sore throat | Common | Sometimes |
| Chest discomfort, cough | Mild to moderate; hacking cough | Common, can become severe |
Prevention: Wash hands often, avoid close contact with anyone who has flu symptoms and get the annual flu vaccine.
If you have flu like symptoms, please seek medical care as soon as possible to get medication.
For more information, please visit:
2015 National Influenza Vaccination Week Key Points
It Is Time To Get Your Flu Vaccine blog
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