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The Disease
Influenza, known more commonly as "the flu," is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs). Unlike many other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu can cause severe illness and life threatening complications in many people.
(more about the symptoms and way it's spread)
The Immunization
Two types of influenza vaccine are now available: inactivated (or killed) vaccine and live attenuated (or weakened) vaccine.The inactivated influenza vaccine is given as a shot and has been used in the United States for many years. The attenuated vaccine, licensed in 2003, is given as a nasal spray. It is licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for healthy children and adults from 2-49 years of age.
(More about the immunization and side effects)
Vaccine Recommendations
- AAP: Prevention of Influenza: Recommendations for Influenza Immunization of Children, 2007-2008
- CDC: Prevention and Control of Influenza (Exit Site)
- CDC: Flu Vaccination for Healthcare Workers
Quick Facts - What You Need to Know
- Why get vaccinated?
- Who should get influenza vaccine and when?
- Some people should not get influenza vaccine or should wait
- What are the risks from influenza vaccine?
- What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?
- Link to AAP Policy Statement, Recommendations for Influenza Immunization of Children
Pandemic Influenza Resources
- Pandemic Flu Issue Brief from AAP and TFAH
- CDC
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Web site
(Exit Site) - AAP Web site with Avian Influenza Resources
Other Resources
- CDC Influenza Page (Exit Site)
- FDA Information on Past and Present Influenza Vaccine (Exit Site)
- Immunization Action Coalition Influenza Page (Exit Site)
- National Network for Immunization Information Influenza Page (Exit Site)
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