Each year, in the United States, there are approximately 36,000 influenza-related deaths, and an estimated 114,000 to 221,000 hospitalizations due to influenza.

Melanie Mouzoon, MD, Managing Physician for Immunization Practices at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, urges flu shots for all of the following individuals:

• Adults 50 years of age or older

• Children between the ages of 6 and 24 months

• Pregnant women (in any stage of pregnancy)

• Residents of long-term care facilities

• Persons who have chronic illnesses especially of the heart, lungs or immune systems, those with diabetes or other metabolic illnesses, and those with multiple sclerosis

• Caretakers, family and household members of anyone in the above categories, especially school children, who are most likely to bring the virus into the home

• Household/family members of infants between the ages of 0 and 6 months (babies are at high risk of hospitalization with the flu but cannot get the vaccine until six months of life)

• Healthcare workers

• Any individual who wishes to reduce the chance of catching the flu!

For some people who dislike shots, nasal flu vaccine is an option. “This option is appropriate for healthy individuals, ages 5 to 49,” notes Dr. Mouzoon.

The best time to schedule your flu shots is before flu season starts. “And while you’re in your doctor’s office, make sure your other immunizations are up to date, too,” the doctor noted. Individuals may need pneumococcal, hepatitis and other vaccinations in addition to the flu vaccine. (See related story: Adult Immunizations.)

Should anyone not receive a flu shot? According to Dr. Mouzoon, “the only people who should not receive a flu vaccine are those who have had a severe allergic reaction to eggs or to a previous dose of the flu vaccine or one of its components. People with severe immune deficiencies and pregnant women should not get the nasal form of the vaccine because it contains a live virus, and their household members may also be advised to get the injection.”

Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases. By staying up to date on the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves, their families and their communities.