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PH: Influenza - Who should get the flu vaccine?

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People who should get vaccinated each year are: 1. People at high risk for complications from the flu, including: Children aged 6 months to 18 years (NEW RECOMMENDATION)  Pregnant women People 50 years of age and older People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions People who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities 2. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including: Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu (see above), Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated), and Healthcare workers 3. Others who want to protect themselves and their household members from influenza can also get flu vaccine. This includes the following: Household contacts of children and adults at higher risk for influenza-related complications Healthy children and adults 19-49 years Use of the Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine The nasal spray vaccine is approved for healthy individuals ages 2-49. Many health care workers and others, including the household contacts and caregivers of at-risk children or adults, could receive it. Talk with your pharmacist or healthcare provider for more information. People who do not get their flu shot are: Placing themselves at risk for influenza, which could be a potentially long and serious illness. Placing babies, young children, and senior citizens at risk for the flu by spreading the flu virus to these people. These groups of people are very vulnerable to serious complications or death from the flu. UPDATED:8/25/2008