Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who should get a flu vaccination?
For the first time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending that everyone over the age of six months receive a seasonal flu vaccination. This includes a flu shot or a nasal spray. Only healthy people aged 2 to 49 (with the exception of pregnant women) should get the nasal spray. Flu vaccination is not recommended for people who are severely allergic to chicken eggs or who have experienced a severe reaction to a flu vaccination in the past.
Why should I get vaccinated?
The flu can cause mild to severe illness. The CDC reports that, in a typical year, approximately 5 to 20 percent of the population gets the seasonal flu and there are over 23,000 flu-related deaths. Getting vaccinated protects you and the people around you who are at high risk for serious flu complications, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all types of flu can cause:
- Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- Coughing and/or sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headaches and/or body aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Vomiting and diarrhea in some people, though this is more common in children than adults
* It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
Is the H1N1 flu still circulating?
Yes. The H1N1 flu is now considered to be a seasonal virus and is expected to be for some years to come, according to the World Health Organization. However, this flu virus is no longer considered to be a pandemic—it is not expected to be as widespread this year.
Do I need a separate vaccination for H1N1 flu this year?
No. This year’s seasonal flu vaccine includes protection for several flu strains, including the 2009 H1N1 virus.
Will I have to pay for the flu vaccination?
No. There is no copay or coinsurance if you simply receive a vaccination at a doctor’s office or flu vaccination clinic. However, if other services, such as an office visit, occur on the same date, applicable copayments, deductibles, and/or coinsurances for the other services will apply.
Where can I receive a flu vaccination?
You can be vaccinated at a doctor’s office or flu vaccination clinic. The Rhode Island Department of Health has provided a list of public flu vaccination clinics taking place this winter.
When can I receive a flu vaccination?
Flu shots and the nasal spray are available now.
What are the "warning signs" that tell me emergency medical care is necessary?
According to the CDC, individuals who become ill and experience any of the warning signs below should seek emergency medical care.
In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
- Fast breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish or gray skin color
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Not waking up or not interacting
- Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
What should I do if I think I have the flu?
In many cases, it isn’t necessary for you to visit your doctor or go to the emergency room for flu treatment, as an over-the-counter drug may relieve your symptoms. Healthcare professionals may seek to control the spread of flu from patient to patient by having individuals with minor illness or non-severe flu cases limit their visits. If you have questions about your health, always ask your doctor.
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