Staph Infections and Flu Shots

Doctors are encouraging people to get flu shots for their kids- because of an increase in flu-related staph infections. A national report shows 22 children died in the 2006-2007 season compared to the 3 cases in the season before.

Doctors have seen some local flu-related staph infections, but no deaths. They say flu virus weakens disease-fighting blood cells. Pediatrician Dr. Barry Gray (OSF St. Francis Medical Center) said,"About one in every 4 people carry staph and normally its not doing a thing so when the influenza virus comes along and disrupts the superficial skin type layer of the lungs then the person becomes more susceptible."

The typical flu season begins this month and runs through may. Doctors encourage adults to get flu shots, too. Doctors are also working on an egg free version of the flu shot because so many people are allergic to eggs. I will post that story in a few weeks.

-NewsAnchorMom Jen

Methodist Medical Center's new online healthcare program, MyMethodist eHealth, is a proud sponsor of this blog post. MyMethodist eHealth is the secure link to your doctor's office that lets you request appointments, order prescription refills, update your personal health record, and more. Sign up for MyMethodist eHealth here.

Will you get the flu shot?

From CNN: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says too few Americans are getting flu shots each winter. The CDC wants to get 30 million more school-age children vaccinated.

The head of the agency says virtually every child from six months to 18 years old should be vaccinated unless they have a serious egg allergy. The new recommendations were announced during a news conference today in Washington.

The agency says there is an ample supply, up to 146-million doses, more than ever before. Doctor Julie Gerberding says 261-million Americans qualify to get the shots. However, last year only 113-million of the 140-million doses produced were used.

Are you or your kids getting the flu shot?

-NewsAnchorMomJen

Methodist Medical Center's new online healthcare program, MyMethodist eHealth, is a proud sponsor of this blog post. MyMethodist eHealth is the secure link to your doctor's office that lets you request appointments, order prescription refills, update your personal health record, and more. Sign up for MyMethodist eHealth here.

Aluminum in Flu Shots?

I just got this question from a newsanchormom.com reader:

"Jen- I'd like to throw a question out there... I thought I had heard one time there is aluminum in flu shots? "

I think I know the answer to this, but I would rather the doctors discuss this because I am not an expert!

-NewsAnchorMom Jen