What are my vaccination options?
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
Anyone six months or older should get vaccinated. The following groups are considered at risk for the flu and will be given priority access to flu shots and antiviral medication:
- Children under the age of 2
- People over 65 and their caregivers
- People with cardiovascular disease (except hypertension alone)
- People with liver or renal disease
- People with muscular dystrophy
- People with seizure disorders and stroke
- Women who are pregnant or within two weeks post partum (after childbirth)
- People who are developmentally delayed
- Residents of nursing homes or other chronic care facilities
Is there anyone who should not get the shot?
Yes, including:
- 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
Where can I get the flu vaccine at Fairview?
- Appointment with a nurse – Call a Fairview Clinic or Fairview independent partner clinic near you
- Fairview Express Care – Walk-in to any of these locations during normal business hours
- Walk-in flu shots at Fairview pharmacies – Find a location, hours of operation and how to come prepared.
How do I reduce my risk of getting the flu?
There are things you can do to protect yourself and your family from the flu:
- Get your seasonal flu vaccination each year
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizer
- Get plenty of sleep, maintain a healthy diet and exercise often to keep your body's natural defenses strong
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?
At this time, all our hospitals and medical centers are asking that those with flu or cold symptoms to refrain from visiting patients. Some patient floors, like our Birthplaces and neonatal intensive care units, are performing screenings of visitors to protect those patients who are most at risk. In some instances, you may also be asked to wear a mask before entering certain patient areas.
