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Immunize Now, Before Flu Season Starts

By: Gretchen Bolander
Updated: September 27, 2012
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JOPLIN, MO-- "The typical flu season lasts anywhere from October 1 to the end of May. So now's the perfect time to start thinking about getting your flu vaccine before the flu hits." And Freeman Infection Control Officer Karen Watts adds just about every patient should get immunized. "There are some populations that are at greater risk: the chronic diseases like diabetes, asthma, heart disease or kidney disease. Those people are at great risk, pregnant women are at greater risk, those who work in health care."

Immunity lasts throughout the flu season and is specific to the strains judged most likely to impact patients. H1N1 is part of the 2012 mix. Watts said, "Immunizations to the flu from the vaccine only lasts one season. They don't have one that lasts for months and months and months so you have to get one every year." She points out the vaccine is readily available and that you can contact your doctor to get your shot.

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