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Category: Flu Shots
Posted September 2, 2010 | Filed in Flu Shots, Risk/Priority Groups
If you haven’t noticed already, the messages and conversations surrounding the flu season and flu shots right now are a little bit different than they were this time last year. While last year there were global concerns about vaccine supply, the H1N1 pandemic, and who was in what priority group to receive the vaccine; this year, we are facing a slightly different scenario.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 160 million doses of seasonal flu vaccine are being produced, which is about 40 percent more than last year. Also different this year is that for the first time, the CDC is recommending universal influenza vaccination. Put simply, everyone over the age of 6 months is advised to get a flu shot, though some children between 6 months and 8 years of age may require two shots. Lastly, while we know that H1N1 is no longer a pandemic, the virus is still around and could prove to be a problem for those who have not been vaccinated this flu season.
One message that remains the same throughout the years is that the single best way to prevent influenza is to get the flu vaccine annually.
That being said, where can you get your flu shot this year?
Findaflushot.com offers a clinic locator feature that allows you to search the thousands of flu shot clinics being offered through Maxim Health Systems and their partners this flu season. Locations at which flu shots can be obtained include retail chains, such as Costco or BJ’s, local public health departments, schools, your place of employment, churches/religious organizations, and more! You can also search for clinics in your area on your mobile phone by going to m.findaflushot.com and entering your zip code.
To learn more about where to find flu shots in your area, visit info.findaflushot.com.
To receive updates and tips through e-mail on the latest flu news this flu season, sign up here.
Posted September 1, 2010 | Filed in Flu Shots, Press Releases
FLU VACCINATIONS BEGIN ON OCTOBER 1
Maxim Health Systems to Provide More Than 30,000 Flu Shot Clinics Nationwide
September 1, 2010 –Maxim Health Systems (MHS) today announced it will launch its annual influenza vaccination program on October 1 and will offer flu shots nationwide through more than 30,000 clinics.
“Influenza immunizations are the best way to prevent illness and subsequent medical problems caused by influenza in people of all ages,” said Dr. W. John Langley, M.D., FAAP, Chief Medical Officer for Maxim Healthcare Services. “We believe that everyone who can, should get a flu shot, and we especially encourage those in high-risk categories to be immunized along with their family members.”
Each year as many as 65 million Americans fall victim to influenza and flu-related complications, such as pneumonia. This results in approximately 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths annually – more than the number of Americans who die from breast cancer and two to three times more than the amount of annual deaths from HIV/AIDS.[1]
This year, for the first time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is recommending everyone over six months of age receive a seasonal flu shot. The flu shot provides protection that lasts through the flu season and is updated annually to include current viruses. This year’s vaccine combines seasonal flu and H1N1, which means everyone over the age of nine-years, will only require one dose of seasonal influenza vaccine. However, children aged six months through eight years of age will need two doses of the vaccine if:
- They are getting the vaccine for the first time, or
- They have not received two doses of the seasonal flu vaccine in a previous year, or
- They did not receive at least one dose of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine last year.
Even those who received H1N1 vaccine in 2009 need a 2010 seasonal influenza vaccine to ensure protection against other influenza strains expected to circulate this fall and winter.
“Influenza is a very serious illness that claims an estimated 36,000 lives each year,” said Steve Pellito, National Director of Wellness Services for Maxim Health Systems. “It is not too early to think about flu prevention, and Maxim’s info.findaflushot.com web site will provide consumers with a wealth of resources including a flu shot locator.”
Maxim Health System’s Web site, www.findaflushot.com, offers an online clinic locator tool to help users quickly locate nearby flu shot clinics based on their local zip code. The site will provide the address, driving directions, dates, and times for flu shots at local clinics. The clinic locator is also available on mobile devices at m.findaflushot.com. Through both the Web site and mobile devices, consumers can receive flu updates, schedule a flu shot reminder, and read a blog to follow flu news and trends as they happen. Consumers can also find a convenient clinic location over the phone at 877-962-9358.
Any participant with Medicare Part B coverage as their primary medical insurance will receive their shot with no co-pay. Some insurances are also accepted, in addition to cash or check. Maxim provides flu vaccines to children ages four and older, unless restricted by state regulation or law.
About Maxim Health Systems
Maxim Health Systems is a division of Maxim Healthcare Services, Inc. Established in 1996, Maxim Health Systems offers a full line of comprehensive wellness services to Corporate and retail clients, in addition to schools, senior living facilities, and physician offices. We provide a variety of services including immunization programs, health screenings and health fairs. Our flu vaccine program has administered more than 12 million immunizations in the last four years alone. Together with Maxim Healthcare Services, we have branch locations in most metropolitan areas across the nation. For more information contact us at www.findaflushot.com/contact.php. Follow Maxim Healthcare Services on Twitter at @findaflushot.
[1] Poland, GA. 2007. New Approaches to Influenza Vaccine Production, 2007; 4-6.
Posted August 30, 2010 | Filed in CDC Alerts, Flu Shots, Pediatric
For the first time ever, the CDC recommends that all people age six months and older receive a flu shot. This year’s vaccine combines strains of seasonal flu and H1N1. Everyone over the age of nine years old will need only one dose of the vaccine. However, if a child six months through eight years old received at least one H1N1 vaccine last year, he/she should receive only one seasonal vaccine this year, provided he/she has had two seasonal shots in a previous season. To learn more about vaccination recommendations for children ages six months through eight years of age, download the chart below, which shows the decision-making process on dosage for this age range.
DOWNLOAD .PDF
Posted August 24, 2010 | Filed in Flu Shots, Flu Tips, H1N1 (Swine Flu), Risk/Priority Groups
Last flu season, the H1N1 virus, more commonly known as Swine flu, became the first global influenza pandemic in more than 40 years. While the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the pandemic over, H1N1 remains a threat this flu season and the CDC says that “it is likely that 2009 H1N1 viruses will continue to spread along with seasonal viruses in the U.S. during the 2010-2011 flu season.” (http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/1011season.htm)
Last year the H1N1 virus “resulted in substantial illness, hospitalizations and deaths,” according to the CDC. While the virus is not expected to be as widespread as last season, it remains one of the strains likely to infect individuals this season. Like other years, the best way to protect yourself from flu is through a flu shot. And while last year the H1N1 vaccine was a separate vaccination from the annual seasonal flu vaccine, this year, protection against last year’s H1N1 virus is included in the seasonal flu vaccine.
The CDC has also expanded its recommendations for who should get vaccinated. The CDC now recommends that everyone six months and older get a 2010-2011 flu vaccine to protect themselves against influenza. While people age 50 and older remain a high risk group for seasonal influenza, the H1N1 virus disproportionately affected younger patients in the 2009-2010 influenza season. In fact, the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report from July 30 states that “279 laboratory-confirmed, influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported, nearly four times the average reported in the previous five influenza seasons.”
Learn more about seasonal flu and H1N1
Use findaflushot.com’s resource center to learn more about the differences between seasonal flu and H1N1 and find out more information about flu and flu vaccines by reading through these frequently asked questions. Please consult the CDC Web site for additional information on who should be vaccinated and be sure to speak to your health care provider before any vaccinations.
Schedule a flu shot reminder
Need a reminder to get a flu shot? Sign up for a flu shot reminder and receive an e-mail in your inbox reminding you to get vaccinated. Also, check back on findaflushot.com on September 1 to search for flu vaccine clinics in your area for the 2010-2011 season.
Posted August 24, 2010 | Filed in CDC Alerts, Flu Shots, Flu Tips, Risk/Priority Groups
With the impending flu season right around the corner, there are simple steps you can take to keep you and your family healthy this flu season. We blogged last week about high-risk groups as highlighted by the CDC, including the recommendation that everyone six months of age and older receive a flu shot for the 2010—2011 flu season. The flu shot is the most effective way to protect yourself against flu, but there are also other steps you can take in conjunction with getting vaccinated that offer additional protection against flu. To guard yourself from an unpredictable flu season, Maxim Health Systems recommends practicing these daily steps to minimize your, and your family’s, chances of catching or spreading the flu:
- Wash your hands frequently, and carry antibacterial gels or lotions with you this fall and winter
- Sneeze or cough into your arm or into a tissue, not your hands
- Always take the precaution of staying home from school or work when you have a cough or fever
- Don’t share foods, drinks, or utensils this flu season
- Use antibacterial wipes to clean objects in your home or office that come into contact with many people, i.e.- door knobs, telephones, computer keyboard, refrigerator/microwave handles, etc.
If you do catch the flu this season, stay home for at least 24 hours after any flu symptoms have subsided to avoid infecting others, and always keep in mind that a period of contagiousness lasts a lot longer than you would typically think. According to the CDC:
“You may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5-7 days after becoming sick. Some people, especially children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others for an even longer time.”
Finally, the CDC’s number one recommendation for avoiding the flu this season? Make the time to get your flu shot. To learn more about getting a flu shot and to sign up for a reminder, visit www.findaflushot.com.
Posted August 17, 2010 | Filed in CDC Alerts, Flu Shots, Uncategorized
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) encourages anyone above the age of six months to receive the vaccine for flu. Unlike last year, this year’s seasonal influenza vaccine contains the H1N1 (swine flu) strain, eliminating the need to receive a second immunization to receive complete protection. Every flu season is different, which is why it is important to get vaccinated every year. Even those who received the H1N1 vaccine in 2009 should receive a 2010 seasonal flu shot.
Groups that are highly recommended to receive the flu shot are those who want to reduce the risk of contracting the flu, people at high risk of having serious complications from influenza, and people who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, such as those with compromised immune systems and young children.
High-Risk Groups
Children aged six months – 18 years old
Each year, approximately 20,000 children are hospitalized due to flu-related complications, such as pneumonia.1 The flu can kill healthy children. Children under five years old are particularly vulnerable. The best way to prevent your child from getting the flu is to have them receive the flu vaccine.1 For any child under nine years who is receiving the vaccine for the first time, two doses are required at least four weeks apart from each other. Since the flu vaccine has not been approved for infants under six months, the best way to protect them is to make sure everyone in your household above six months gets a flu shot.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women are at a high risk for getting the flu, as well as several complications that may accompany it, such as pneumonia and respiratory distress. This can, in turn, cause miscarriage and premature labor. Getting a flu shot is a good way to prevent these problems. The flu shot takes about two weeks after vaccination to be effective.
Chronic medical conditions
People with chronic medical issues such as, asthma or another lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, blood disease, etc. can be especially vulnerable to contracting influenza, as well as complications from the flu, such as pneumonia. People with immune system problems caused either by disease (e.g., HIV or lymphoma) or by medication (e.g., chemotherapy or radiation therapy) are also strongly urged to get a flu shot.
Other groups that are at high risk for influenza are residents of nursing homes and other long term care facilities, as well as, people 65 years of age and older.
People Who Should Not Receive the Flu Shot
There are very few people who are not advised to receive the flu shot. Those people recommended to discuss the benefits and risks of vaccination with their doctor are: those with severe allergies (life threatening) to any component of the vaccine, those with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, and those who are moderately or severely ill at the time of immunization.
The Importance of Receiving a Flu Shot
Each year, it is estimated that 25-50 million flu cases are reported in the U.S. Approximately 200,000 of these cases require hospitalization and 36,000 result in death.1 Flu symptoms include fever, chills, coughing, sore throat, fatigue, headache, and runny nose.
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot every year. The influenza vaccine works by exposing your body to the influenza virus so that your body can build up antibodies to the virus, which will protect you from getting the flu. The viruses in inactivated influenza vaccine have been killed, so you cannot get influenza from the vaccine.
Flu season usually begins in November and lasts until April. The optimal time to receive a flu shot is at the start of flu season, between October and November.
For more flu facts, click here.
Locate a flu clinic near you today.
***
Sources:
1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Posted August 12, 2010 | Filed in Flu Shots, H1N1 (Swine Flu)
This week marks an exciting moment as the World Health Organization announced that the swine flu pandemic that has officially been declared over. However, it should be noted that while not at pandemic levels, the H1N1 virus is not gone and the virus itself will continue to circulate into the 2010-11 influenza season. This season marks the first time ever that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have issued a universal recommendation for all Americans age 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu shot. More than ever, it is critical that people are vaccinated to stop the onset of a new pandemic. Officials from governments around the US are taking notice as we gear up for back-to-school season and want to make sure that the most vulnerable populations, especially children, are protected with the best defense possible against influenza. Do you know where you’ll be getting your flu shot this year?
Posted August 4, 2010 | Filed in Flu Shots, Flu Tips, Risk/Priority Groups
To raise awareness about immunizations against preventable diseases, August is recognized as National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). Immunization is important because it protects you from serious, life-threatening infections. Being aware of the vaccines that are recommended for infants, children, adolescents, adults, and seniors is vital to protection from preventable disease. Influenza, Pneumonia, Tetanus, and Hepatitis are just a few of the different vaccines that can protect you both at home and abroad. With “Back to School” and flu seasons just around the corner, this month is the perfect time to remind your family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors to catch up on their vaccinations.
Why?
Immunization against disease is one of the most significant public health developments in modern history. Despite the scientific advances, more Americans are killed by vaccine-preventable diseases than car accidents, breast cancer, or AIDS. According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, more than 50,000 adults die each year of diseases that could have been prevented by vaccination.
Who?
Vaccination recommendations begin soon after a child is born, continue throughout life, and are critical to protecting ourselves and our communities from disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended immunization schedules for both adults and children/adolescents available on their site.
One of the most important immunizations for all age groups to receive is a flu shot. Influenza season begins in September and there are several changes to the official recommendations for 2010. The CDC now recommends that all people age 6 months and older be immunized against the flu. This year’s seasonal flu vaccine also includes immunization against the H1N1 flu virus. Having just one shot for both flu strains will make it easier for children and adults to stay protected.
When?
Most vaccines are given during the first five to six years of life, however, other immunizations or booster immunizations (for certain vaccines) are recommended throughout life. When traveling outside of the U.S., vaccines against certain diseases are recommended for specific regions of the world. When it comes to the flu, influenza viruses change every year, and a new vaccine is used annually to fight the most current virus, making it necessary to get your seasonal flu shot every year. Clinics begin October 1, however, flu clinic information for your area will be available September 1. Don’t forget to get vaccinated this flu season. Sign up for an e-mail reminder to get your flu shot today.
Where?
Growing public awareness regarding the dangers of influenza has created a great demand for flu shots. Every fall, millions of people across the nation get vaccinated since it’s still the very best way to stay protected from the flu. Maxim hosts thousands of public flu shot clinics across the country each year to vaccinate people for influenza. These flu shot clinics are easily accessible, often held in local pharmacies, grocery stores, or retail establishments. In addition, many companies offer corporate wellness programs, which include the provision of flu shots to their employees. You can also get vaccinated in your doctor’s office or a clinic as part of personal, regular health maintenance.
The information contained within this blog is not meant as a substitute for professional medical advice. When differences exist between the information here and information given to you by your healthcare provider(s), you should follow the advice of your healthcare provider(s). Any additional information or clarification needed should be sought from the Physician who is familiar with the individual’s health and medical conditions.
Posted January 12, 2010 | Filed in CDC Alerts, Flu Shots
Posted January 7, 2010 | Filed in Flu Shots, Press Releases
Corporate Headquarters
7227 Lee Deforest Drive
Columbia, MD 21046
Steve Pellito
National Director of Wellness
Maxim Health Systems
410-910-1164
steve.pellito@maximwellness.com
AMERICANS ENCOURAGED TO GET H1N1 VACCINE DURING NATIONAL INFLUENZA VACCINATION WEEK
January 6, 2010 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has designated the week of January 10 through 16 as National Influenza Vaccination Week, in an effort to raise awareness about the importance of the flu vaccine. With flu experts warning that the U.S. should prepare for a possible third wave of H1N1 flu, it is crucial that Americans take the opportunity to protect themselves and their loved ones from this dangerous illness and receive the H1N1 vaccine while supply is available.
Individuals who would like to find an H1N1 vaccination clinic in their area or learn more about the virus can visit h1n1.findaflushot.com, an online resource sponsored by Maxim Health Systems. Visitors to the site can find convenient clinic locations by simply typing in a local zip code.
“Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu,” notes Steve Pellito, National Director of Wellness for Maxim Health Systems. “By taking the simple step of getting your H1N1 vaccine, you are helping keep yourself, your family, and your community healthy.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends that anyone who falls into a high risk category for complications from H1N1 should get vaccinated. This includes:
According to the CDC, those individuals who have been patiently waiting to receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine, including people 65 and older, are encouraged to get vaccinated depending on local supply.
Maxim accepts Medicare Part B with no co-pay required when Medicare Part B is the primary insurance.
About Maxim Health Systems
Maxim Health Systems is a division of Maxim Healthcare Services, Inc. Established in 1996, Maxim Health Systems offers a full line of comprehensive wellness services to corporate and retail clients, in addition to schools, senior living facilities, and Physician offices. We provide a variety of services, including immunizations, health screenings, and health fairs. In 2008, our influenza immunization program alone was responsible for vaccinating more than 2.5 million people at more than 44,000 flu clinics. Together with Maxim Healthcare Services, we have branch locations in most metropolitan areas across the nation. For more information, contact us at www.findaflushot.com/contact.php and visit www.findaflushot.com to locate a flu clinic in your area.