This year’s shot for the flu includes the H1N1 antibody, and that may be turning off potential patients. Others have asked specifically how to get inoculated for the swine flu.
The standard vaccine includes three strains of antibodies this year. Every year scientists concoct a vaccine that addresses the anticipated outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says:
“Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine as soon as vaccine is available this fall. While flu is unpredictable, it’s likely that 2009 H1N1 viruses and regular seasonal viruses will cause illness in the U.S. this flu season. The 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against three different flu viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus that caused so much illness last season.”
Also this year, there is a vaccine for seniors. USA Today provided a story that said:
“Another less well known addition for this year’s vaccinations is a high dose option specifically for people age 65 or over. The high-dose contains roughly four times the amount of antibodies as a regular dose and may have a higher risk of negative reaction. But, pharmacists said, this risk is more than balanced by its benefits, as immune systems tend to weaken with age.”
Here is a page on the CDC website that tracks flu outbreaks worldwide.
What about antiviral drugs? Here is some advice from the CDC:
