When it comes to the flu –
think defensively!

Derry Medical Center and Londonderry Family Practice strongly advise their patients (excluding babies younger than 6 months) to get an annual flu vaccination. This year’s flu clinic will start on September 20, 2011. The clinic is open for appointments on Tuesday and Wednesday with evening appointments on Thursdays. This year’s vaccine does include the H1N1 in one vaccine. The clinic is only available in the Derry office however, patients can schedule a vaccine in Londonderry as a nurse visit.

What illnesses does the flu vaccine cover?

The seasonal flu vaccine protects against three influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against 2009 H1N1, and two other influenza viruses (an H3N2 virus and an influenza B virus).

Who should get a flu vaccine?

Infants younger than six months cannot receive the vaccine, but they are still at high risk for complications from the seasonal flu and H1N1 virus. Additionally, the elderly, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions – such as heart, lung or kidney disease or weakened immune system – can get much sicker. The CDC recommends that all family members, including children between six months and 18 years receive the vaccine.

If you received the 2009 H1N1 (pandemic) influenza vaccine, or had pandemic flu in 2010, you should still get the 2011-2012 seasonal flu vaccine.

When should I get a flu vaccination?

CDC recommends that people get their seasonal flu vaccine as soon as vaccine becomes available in their community. Vaccination before December is best since this timing ensures that protective antibodies are in place before flu activity is typically at its highest. CDC continues to encourage people to get vaccinated throughout the flu season, which can begin as early as October and last as late as May. Over the course of the flu season, many different influenza viruses can circulate at different times and in different places. As long as flu viruses are still spreading in the community, vaccination can provide protective benefit.

Does flu vaccine work right away?

No. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. In the meantime, you are still at risk for getting the flu. That's why it's better to get vaccinated early in the fall, before the flu season really gets under way.

It’s up to U – Protect Yourself and Your Family from the Flu

Call the office today at (603) 537-1300 to schedule an annual flu vaccine for you and any family members over the age of 6 months