People at High Risk For Flu Complications
Most people who get sick with flu will have mild illness, will not need medical care or antiviral drugs and will recover in less than two weeks. Some people, however, are more likely to get flu complications that can result in hospitalization and sometimes death.
Flu also can make chronic health problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have flu and people with chronic congestive heart failure may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu. Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections are other examples of flu-related complications.
For more information, visit the CDC website.
Study Shows Hospitalization Rates and Risk of Death from Flu Increase with Age
While flu seasons can vary in severity, during most seasons, people 65 years and older bear the greatest burden of severe flu disease. A CDC co-authored study published in the journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases reports that people 85 years and older are much more likely to be hospitalized and die from flu than adults 65 to 74 years old.
MMWR released:
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Adults: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
CDC recommends vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) at age 11 to 12 years, and now also recommends catch-up vaccination through age 26 years for all genders. Although CDC does not recommend catch-up vaccination for all adults ages 27 through 45 years, some people in this age range who are at risk for new HPV infection might benefit from vaccination.
This report updates CDC recommendations for adults in the United States. It harmonizes the catch-up age through age 26 years for all genders and adds guidance about HPV vaccination for adults ages 27 through 45 years who are at risk for new HPV infection and might benefit from vaccination. Although 9-valent HPV vaccine is licensed for use through age 45 years, CDC does not recommend it for all such adults, and clinicians need not discuss HPV vaccination with all adults over the age of 26 years because most people in this age range are unlikely to benefit from vaccination.
For more information, please read the MMWR released on August 16, 2019.
Updated Vaccine Information Statements
The Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) for the Hepatitis B, Influenza (both IIV and LAIV), Japanese encephalitis, MenACWY, MenB, MMR, MMRV, and Varicella vaccines were updated on 8/15/19. Please be sure to look through your Vaccine Information Statements and replace any outdated sheets. You can access the updated sheets on the VIS page of the CDC website.  |
Education Corner
The "Red Zone"
What is the "Red Zone"?
At any time when a provider is standing within the square of red tape, preparing vaccinations, the rule is that no one can speak to that person. The "Red Zone" is a simple, yet effective technique used in cutting down on vaccine errors due to distractions in the office.
Special thanks to EMMC Family Medicine in Hampden for allowing us to use this photo and for being proactive in ensuring that children are getting the correct vaccine, dosage, and that paperwork is done accurately!
What does your practice do to cut down on vaccine errors or to ensure a smooth work flow in regards to vaccines and vaccine administration?
We would love to hear your success stories and share with other Maine Immunization Program Providers!
Email us at: ImmunizeME.DHHS@maine.gov
Give Your Strong Recommendation
Although parents frequently consult family members, friends, and web pages for information on vaccines, parents consistently rank their child’s doctor as their most trusted source for vaccine information. With this unique position, your strong recommendation is critical for vaccine acceptance.
Clearly state your strong recommendation. If appropriate, you can add a brief supporting statement that uses a mix of science and anecdote, depending on what you think will be most effective with that parent. Share the importance of vaccines to protect children from potentially life-threatening diseases, or talk about your personal experiences with vaccination. For example:
“I strongly recommend your child get these vaccines today….”
“…These shots are very important to protect him from serious diseases.”
“…I believe in vaccines so strongly that I vaccinated my own children on schedule.”
“…This office has given thousands of doses of vaccines, and we have never seen a serious reaction.”
For more information on effective ways to talk with parents on vaccines, visit the Provider Resources for Vaccine Conversations with Parents page on the CDC website. |
