With Dr. Dianna Diallo Did you know that it’s not too late to get your flu vaccine? Most years, flu activity peaks between December and February. To explain more about the flu and the flu vaccine, our doctor answers commonly asked questions. Why do I need a flu vaccine? The flu can be a life-threatening illness. Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to stay healthy and not spread the virus to others. Why do I need a flu vaccine every year? A person’s protection from a flu vaccine is less effective over time, so a vaccine every year is needed for full protection. Flu viruses are also always changing, so flu vaccines are updated each year. The flu vaccine you got last year may not be the right one to protect you for this flu season. Who should get a flu vaccine? Everyone 6 months and older can get the flu vaccine. Children who get the flu are at risk of health problems, especially if they are under the age of 2. A flu vaccine is the best way to protect your child from flu-related illness. If you are pregnant, you have a higher risk of getting very sick from the flu than people who are not pregnant. Getting the flu vaccine will help protect you and your baby. Is a flu vaccine safe for my child? The flu vaccine is safe for children. It does not cause the flu or any other infection. It is very rare for the flu vaccine to cause an allergic reaction. Check with your child’s doctor if you have questions about your child getting the flu or any concerns about allergies. Does the Alliance cover flu vaccines for me and my family? Yes! Alliance members can get a flu vaccine at no cost. Be sure to bring Ask the doctor Dr. Diallo is a Medical Director for Central California Alliance for Health with over 15 years of primary care experience. Why flu vaccines are important for everyone Organ and tissue donation You can help save lives by becoming an organ or tissue donor. If you are between 15 and 18 years old, you can become a donor with the written consent of your parent or guardian. You can change your mind about being an organ donor at any time. If you want to learn more about organ or tissue donation, talk to your doctor. You can also visit the website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at www.organdonor.gov. Living Healthy 4
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