2017-2018 FLU Season is Here! Persistent Cough Implications

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2017-2018 FLU Season is Here!  Dr. Mandel Sher at Center for Cough encourages all people to get a 2017-2018 flu vaccine – now!  It’s the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself and your friends and family from the 2017-2018 flu.  Dr. Sher says, “Getting a flu shot is the patriotic thing to do.”  The more people who get vaccinated, the more people will be protected from flu.  While flu is uncomfortable for everyone, it can result in very serious complications, and even death, for older people, very young children, pregnant women, and people with certain long-term health conditions who are medically vulnerable.

People with Chronic Cough are at higher risk for having complications associated with flu.  Persistent Cough often has underlying respiratory conditions, such as allergies and/or asthma,  that may be exacerbated by flu.

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against flu.   CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccine.  To optimize effectiveness, getting vaccinated by end of October 2017 is best.  But, better later than never – Flu vaccination after October can still offer some benefits.  Flu season generally begins in October, peaks in December through February, and continues through May 2018.  According to the CDC:

ONLY injectable flu vaccine is recommended for this 2017-2018 flu season.  Nasal spray flu vaccine is not recommended.

Dr. Sher is frequently asked: “ Can I get a flu vaccine if I am allergic to eggs?” According to the CDC, the answer is:  YES! The CDC’s recommendations for people with egg allergies are:

  • People who have experienced only hives after exposure to egg can get any licensed flu vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health.
  • People who have symptoms other than hives after exposure to eggs, such as angioedema, respiratory distress, lightheadedness, or recurrent emesis; or who have needed epinephrine or another emergency medical intervention, also can get any licensed flu vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health, but the vaccine should be given in a medical setting and be supervised by a health care provider who is able to recognize and manage severe allergic conditions.  People with egg allergies no longer have to wait 30 minutes after receiving their vaccine.

Flu vaccine is now available with Dr. Mandel Sher at Center for Cough, and is also widely available in the community.   Help yourself, your loved ones, and your community to avoid illness, possible hospitalizations, and missed work and school.  Please get a flu vaccine – now!

Dr. Mandel Sher:  Nationally Renown Cough Expert:  727-393-8067.

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