If your kids don’t like needles, we have some bad news.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) back the flu shot over the flu nasal spray. Their professionals do not feel the nasal flu spray effectively protects against the spread of the flu this season.
“Getting a shot will not come as welcome news to children but we hope it does not deter parents from getting a flu vaccination for their kids,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent health insurance agency.
Recent studies by the CDC, reveal the flu nasal spray, FluMist did not protect against certain flu strains. Researchers have concluded, last year only three percent of children ages 2-17 reaped its benefits. In comparison, the injected vaccine proved 63 percent effective. Furthermore, studies show the ineffectiveness of FluMist over the past three flu seasons.
More than a third of all children vaccinated received the flu nasal spray last year. FluMist is a weakened form of a live virus strain sprayed into the nose. Astra Zeneca, the manufacturer of FluMist continues to stand behind their product. They said in a statement that it disputes the CDC’s findings. Astra Zeneca claims the effectiveness rate of FluMist is 46 to 58 percent.
The flu can develop into serious illness. “The flu shot is covered at no cost to the patient by most health insurance plans, including Medicare Part B,” reminds Buck from GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent health insurance agency.
Additionally, the CDC urges that everyone 6 months and older receive a shot for the 2016- 2017 flu season. They advise children with medical conditions including asthma and diabetes get vaccinated to reduce their risk of flu complications. Also, healthcare personnel and child care providers should receive a shot.
Likewise, pregnant women should get vaccinated. The shot is safe at any point in the pregnancy. Expectant mothers can get very sick if they get the flu.  Also, vaccinated moms can pass some protection to their baby.
You can get a flu shot this year from October 2016 (possibly earlier) until June 2017.
The flu vaccine is convenient.  Find it available at many pharmacies, walk-in clinics, public health facilities and your doctor’s office.
To keep updated of national and state flu activity, check out the Florida Health Department’s web page at: http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/influenza/index.html.
GreatFlorida Insurance is committed to helping Floridians stay healthy. Our experienced agents can offer you  quality health insurance policies to fit your needs while staying within your budget. Call us at 888-478-7801 or go online to www.greatflorida.com for a free quote today.
