Flu Frequently Asked Questions
What vaccination options do you have?
There are three options for getting the seasonal flu vaccine:
There are three options for getting the seasonal flu vaccine:
- Shot – an injection directly into the body
- Nasal spray – a spray into the nose for persons under 50
- High dose shot – a stronger strain of the flu shot for persons over 65
Who should get immunized?
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that everyone age six months and older get a seasonal flu shot in the fall to build up immunity to the flu virus. Some people, such as older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), are at increased risk for serious complications from seasonal flu illness.
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that everyone age six months and older get a seasonal flu shot in the fall to build up immunity to the flu virus. Some people, such as older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), are at increased risk for serious complications from seasonal flu illness.
Do I only need one shot?
Generally, yes, patients only need to get one flu shot. However, there are some exceptions where a person may require two doses (administered four weeks apart) including:
Generally, yes, patients only need to get one flu shot. However, there are some exceptions where a person may require two doses (administered four weeks apart) including:
- Children under the age of 9 who are getting the flu shot for the first time
- Children 6 months to age 9 who missed their second dose in the previous year
- Patients with certain health conditions such as asthma, HIV/aids, children or teens receiving aspirin therapy and children 5 and under with a history of recurrent wheezing
Are there any groups who should not get the shot?
Yes, these include:
- People who have had Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting a flu vaccine
- People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs or who are allergic to any of the nasal spray vaccine components
Can anyone get the nasal spray?
No. The nasal spray is designed for people from the ages of 2 years to 49 years old who do not have existing health conditions including asthma, HIV/aids, children or teens receiving aspirin therapy and children 5 and under with a history of recurrent wheezing.
No. The nasal spray is designed for people from the ages of 2 years to 49 years old who do not have existing health conditions including asthma, HIV/aids, children or teens receiving aspirin therapy and children 5 and under with a history of recurrent wheezing.
What is the high dose flu shot?
The high dose flu shot is available for persons 65 and older. This shot contains a higher dose of the flu vaccine to help protect this age group which has historically had a harder time building up immunity.
Where can I get the flu vaccine?
You have many options for receiving your flu shot at Fairview:
- Make a flu-shot only appointment at your Fairview Clinic or get your flu shot at your next scheduled appointment
- Visit select Fairview Hospitals and Medical Centers to receive your flu shot
- Vist a flu-shot walk in clinic
Is there any risk of a pandemic flu outbreak this year?
There is always a risk that a flu outbreak could occur depending on how strong the virus is. However, there are things you can do to protect yourself and your family from the flu:
- Get your seasonal flu vaccination each year
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or with your upper sleeve when you sneeze
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizer
What should I do if I think that I have the flu?
Generally, if you think you have the flu you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. However, patients in high-risk groups, such as older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), should call their clinic or make an appointment if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Are there any restrictions when visiting patients in the hospital?
No. There are no restrictions (such as wearing masks) for visiting patients in the hospital this flu season. But when visiting a hospital or clinic you should always use the hand sanitizer available in the reception area in order to prevent spreading germs.
