Vaccines for the Flu Season

Influenza (the flu) is a viral infection that often causes fever, muscle aches, and a dry cough. The flu is transmitted from person to person through coughing and sneezing. The condition can also be transmitted if an object containing infectious material (such as a toy or door handle) is touched and then the eyes, nose, or mouth is touched. In the U.S., flu season typically corresponds with the fall, winter, and spring seasons, with increased infections typically between December and March.

The flu vaccine is recommended for all persons 6 months of age and older. The two types of influenza vaccine available are trivalent inactivated vaccine (TIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV). Age, allergies, and other health conditions are used to determine what type of vaccine is appropriate for a specific person. Persons who are healthy, not pregnant, and between the ages of 2 and 49 are generally able to receive LAIV. Persons with certain types of conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, generally should receive TIV. For persons who become infected with influenza, antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) may be prescribed to decrease the duration of symptoms. Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be taken to alleviate symptoms, such as a fever.