Did you get your flu shot?

Because it takes about two weeks after receiving the flu vaccine to be fully protected against the flu virus, state health officials urge Michiganders to get a flu shot before they head to holiday parties and other gatherings where infections can spread rapidly. Angela Minicuci, of the Michigan Department of Community Health, says influenza can lead to serious illness and even death, and the best protection people can get is through vaccinations. She says flu can be a serious disease, particularly among young children, older adults, and people with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes. Minicuci says that it is even more critical for parents and caregivers to be protected against flu since vaccines are not recommended for infants six-months-old-and-younger. She says nasal spray is an option to a shot, and that this year vaccine is available for those with egg-allergies and the protection covers four strains of influenza this year instead of the traditional three strains. Flu cases have been growing in Michigan and there have been three influenza-associated pediatric deaths nationwide so far this season.  (MRN)