Flu Mist Update: Video

Have you heard? The FluMist wont be available for the 2016-2017 flu season, meaning that everyone will need to get the shot. Dr. Fitzgerald explains this decision and affirms why you and your family should receive the flu vaccine this year.

Transcript:

Dr. Fitzgerald: Hi, I’m Ralph Fitzgerald. I’m one of the doctors at MD Pediatrics, and today I’d like to briefly talk about the upcoming flu season. 

FluMist Update: Only shots available this flu season.

Dr. Fitzgerald: As some of you probably already know, the CDC has recommended not using the nasal flu vaccine this year due to its poor performance last year and concerns that the same would happen this year. This is very unfortunate for our patients who have gotten used to using the FluMist for their annual flu vaccine. However, I would like to stress that the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the doctors at MD Pediatrics strongly recommend getting the flu vaccine for all patients over 6 months of age unless there is a medical indication for them not to receive the vaccine.  

It should be noted that the CDC had no concerns over the efficacy of the injectable dead vaccine, and this vaccine has been tried and true for many years.

Every year the flu kills thousands of Americans, and unfortunately the young and the elderly are affected the most. The flu shot is your family’s best protection at preventing the flu and possible hospitalization from its complications.

Thank you for your time, and look for updates from us concerning availability of the flu vaccine and flu clinics.