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$Title{How is it That Each Year They Change the Names of the Flu Shots?}
$Subject{flu shot immunization virus viruses viral Infections infection
immunity mutation high fever headache inflammation respiratory immunizations
vaccination vaccinations fevers headaches}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How is it That Each Year They Change the Names of the Flu Shots?


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QUESTION:  Each year we hear the same publicity about flu shots, but I am sure
they give you just as much problems as the actual disease.  How is it that
each year they change the names of the flu shots?  Isn't this just another way
of making people spend their money for nothing?

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ANSWER:  It sounds like you are a true "doubter," but you must have a lot of
company; each year only about 25% of the people who need protection from the
flu take the trouble to get this important disease preventive.  The names
change each year because the viruses change.  As the world population develops
immunity to one strain of virus, others emerge through a process similar to
genetic mutation that changes the way they affect our immune system.
Scientists of the World Health Organization flu team around the world work to
predict just which strain will be the most prevalent during the coming flu
season, which begins in December and runs through March with the peak of the
season occurring in February.  This year there are three strains of virus
predicted to make their yearly attack, A/Shanghai, A/Singapore and B/Yagamata,
named after the places in which they were discovered.  Flu is not a mere cold;
in fact flu viruses and cold viruses are different, but the flu can cause
serious illness, high fever, headache, generalized aches in arms, legs and
back and inflammation of the respiratory system.  Although it is mid-November,
it is still not too late to get your shot, particularly if you are over 65,
have chronic respiratory disease, or a weakened immune system.  You probably
will have little to no reactions, as the inoculation is an inactivated vaccine
prepared in eggs.  Individuals with allergy to eggs should consult their
physicians first.  As to cost, you probably can get yours for a most nominal
fee at your local health department, hospital clinics or other facilities set
up in your region to serve you.  Since the flu can leave you weakened and at
risk for additional bacterial infections that may be life threatening, why not
take this sincere advice, and get your flu shot this year?

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.