Flu Shot Recommendations from NEW Health

by Dr. John Foster, Chief Medical Officer for North End Waterfront Health

Flu season is just around the corner and everyone should consider getting a flu shot.

The influenza vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting or spreading the flu. We encourage all of our patients to consider getting a flu shot, especially those that are considered at high risk for complications of the flu.  People who are high risk include:

• Those with medical conditions, such as asthma , diabetes, heart disease, or other lung diseases
• Pregnant women, their spouses, and those who might get pregnant this winter
• Children aged 6 months to 5 years
• People older than  50 years of age
• People who live with or care for others considered to be high risk (e.g. children under age 5)

This year, as before, the flu vaccine combines the seasonal flu and the H1N1 strains in one shot. Because immunity wanes, if you received a flu shot last year it will not provide protection this winter. Everyone aged 6 months and older should receive flu vaccine every year, even if they received flu vaccine last season.

To receive the flu shot contact your primary care provider’s office. If you are a NEW Health patient, call the flu hotline for more information at 617-643-8114.