Wasatch OB - Flu Vaccination Information for 2010 Flu Season

There is only one influenza vaccine to be administered in the 2010-2011 Flu Season. The seasonal vaccine contains the same A(H1N1) strain that was contained in the monovalent A(H1N1) vaccine last year and two other strains, A(H3N2) and Influenza B.

The CDC now recommends seasonal influenza vaccine universally to all individuals age 6 months and above. Injectable preservative free vaccination is recommended for ALL pregnant patients.

Vaccine is effective throughout the influenza season, even when administered before October. No revaccination is needed during the season.

Vaccination should start around the middle of October. Even though demand for influenza immunization tends to dwindle by mid-December, patients should be encouraged to continue to be vaccinated through the month of March until all supply is used.

Wasatch OB/GYN will not carry CAIV-T – [FluMist®] as this is NOT recommended for pregnant patients.

Medicaid patients can self pay for the flu vaccination for a fee of $40 to $45, or they can receive the flu vaccination at the health department or with a family provider.

A new flu product is available for patients over age 65 years. CMS has officially stated that High-dose Fluzone® will be covered under Medicare Part B. Wasatch OB/GYN will not provide this vaccination. Patients who desire this vaccination will need to see their Family Provider for this vaccination.

For more information on vaccination information, review the Utah Department of Health’s Vaccination Locator/Flu Vaccine Locator. Patients can search by city, county, or facility name to find the nearest site to receive the influenza vaccine. Information includes the name, address and phone number of the facility along with the hours that influenza vaccine will be available. It also informs patients about which types of vaccine will be offered (with preservative, preservative free, intranasal, and high-dose) and the populations that may access vaccine at the sites (anyone, established patients only, 18 and older, etc.). The site can be accessed at www.utahflufighters.com.