The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that there are a variety of flu vaccine options for the 2013-2014 flu season. Epidemiologists underscore the importance of getting vaccinated to prevent wide-spread illness. The CDC, however, does not recommend one version over the other. Discussing options with a medical professional is important in order for individuals to make the choice that is right for them.
Each year the trivalent flu vaccine is comprised of two strains of influenza A and one of two possible strains of influenza B. This year the quadrivalent vaccine will contain both strains of A and both strains of B. Quantities will be limited and may not be available in all locations.
For patients 6 months and older there is a standard dose trivalent shot that is made using an egg medium to grow the virus. There are many brands of this type of vaccine currently in use.
For patients 18 and older there is a trivalent shot which is grown in a cell culture. There is also another shot derived from a completely egg-free culture which is approved for people from 18 to 49.
For people 65 and older there is a high-dose trivalent shot available.
Another form of the vaccine can be delivered intradermally (right under the skin) instead of in a muscle and uses a much smaller needle than the regular flu shot. It is approved for patients who range from 18 to 64 years old.
The quadrivalent shot comes in two forms. A standard shot and a nasal spray approved for people 2 through 49 years old who are considered healthy with no underlying health issues.
The CDC reports that from 1976 to 2007, flu-related deaths ranged from just around 7,000 to approximately 49,000. The CDC also indicates that over 90% of all flu-related deaths occurred in patients over 65 years old.
While the flu season is off to a quiet start, officials warn that once a flu epidemic breaks out, vaccines may run short or provide less resistance than getting the vaccine early in the season. Deaths generally occur not from the virus directly, but from the complicating illnesses related to influenza, such as pneumonia or other secondary infections.
In order to determine the best options for their patients, healthcare providers such as nurses, physician assistants and nurse practitioners must engage in ongoing education and training. The CDC provides many helpful articles for professionals seeking more information about the variety of vaccines available this year.
References:
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
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