According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an
annual flu vaccine is recommended for the following (in order of
priority
Groups at increased risk of influenza-related complications:
Persons age 65 and older.
Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities
that house persons of any age who have chronic medical conditions.
Adults and children with a chronic health condition such as
heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, asthma, cancer, and
HIV/AIDS.
Adults and children who have cognitive dysfunction, spinal cord
injuries, seizure disorders, or other neuromuscular disorders that
can hinder breathing.
Children and adolescents, age 6 months to 18 years, who are on
long-term aspirin therapy.
Women who will be pregnant during the flu season.
Children age 6-23 months
Adults age 50-64 years and children age 24-59 months -- these
groups are at increased risk for influenza, particularly if they have a
high-risk medical condition.
Persons who could potentially transmit influenza virus to persons at
high risk for complications, including:
Health care workers
Employees of nursing homes who have contact with patients or
residents
Employees of assisted living and other residences who provide
direct care for persons in high-risk groups
Persons who provide home care to people at high risk (e.g.,
volunteer workers or visiting nurses)
Household contacts and out-of-home caregivers, particularly for
contacts of children age 0-59 months.
Students and other persons in institutional settings (e.g.,
college students in dormitories).
Persons who wish to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill or
transmitting the flu to others (depending on vaccine availability)
For more information on the flu vaccine, including contraindications for
receiving a flu shot or FluMist intranasal vaccine, see our Questions
and Answers Regarding the Flu Vaccine.
DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this site is intended for
general information and educational purposes. It is not intended to
replace the advice of your own physician. Contact your physician if you
believe you have a health problem.
