For years seniors have been known to be the first to have their flu vaccines once flu season starts. With the pandemic of H1N1 it would seem typical for seniors to be one of the first group of people that would more likely be of high risk, however that is not the case.  It seems that for seniors they seem to have a bit of immunity and have been largely spared. Researchers believe that the main reason this is the case is that for years seniors have already been exposed to similar viruses in their lifetimes. It is a rare bit of good news that seniors are embracing.

Communities across Florida that have a large senior community have been happy that this pandemic hasn’t spread in their community.  Over 80 percent of the senior populations have said that they will not seek the H1N1 shot and understand the government’s order for putting other people more of a priority.  Doctors across country are also noticing that seniors aren’t as concerned with the H1N1 virus and are happy that they aren’t that concerned because in actuality they don’t need it. 

Federal guidelines call for pregnant women to be given the shot first, those who live with or care for children younger than 6 months, health care workers, those 6 months up to 24 years old and people with chronic health problems.  Only after those shots are distributed will they become available to seniors under 64 years of age and younger.

Flu season has arrived and seniors should be prepared. With all the attention on the H1N1 virus and with the flu season already on its way, there’s no better time than now for seniors to get their flu shots.

There are 226,000 Americans who are hospitalized with flu each year and over 30,000 people die because of the flu or its complications according to CDC. Seniors who have chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and kidney problems have a high risk of being affected. Seniors are more likely to get sick because as people age, their immune systems get weaker and don’t respond as well.

What is Flu?

It is a highly contagious respiratory infection.

Symptoms of the flu

• High Fever/Chills
• Runny or Stuffy Nose
• Headaches
• Muscle Aches
• Sore Throat
• Constant Coughing/Dry Cough  

Pneumococcal Pneumonia is another vaccine that seniors should also protect themselves against. Seniors over 64 years old and others with increased susceptibility to infections such as diabetes, chronic disorders of the lung or heart and cirrhosis should get vaccinated. Seniors who plan to get the flu shot can get the vaccination at the same time and will more than likely be also covered by Medicare.

Seniors should contact their doctor today to get their flu shots or visit a clinic or any drugstore chains that offer flu vaccinations. Medicare will cover the cost of the shot so don’t wait until you get sick. Also CVS and Walgreens are offering free flu shots to the unemployed and uninsured.  For all other consumers Walgreens will charge $24.99 for injections and $29.99 for a nasal spray version. 

It’s your life take care of your body and health…..