Influenza is a serious public hazard killing more people every year than SARS, West Nile Virus, and Anthrax combined. The vaccine prevents disease in approximately 70-95% of the people who receive it. Piedmont Pediatrics encourages all children ages 6 months-18 years to receive the flu vaccine as we are anticipating a very active flu season.
This year we will be offering the traditional injected (shot) vaccine Fluzone and the nasal spray, FluMist is also available for healthy children 2 years of age and older. Shots may be given during well-child exams, however all other vaccines will be given at our flu shot clinics. Flu immunization clinics will start on Saturday September 12 and will run every Saturday as needed from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Flu immunization will also be given during the week with our nurse practitioner as scheduled visits.
Appointments are required and may be made by calling our office at (540)347-9900.
Contradictions to any flu vaccine:
- Severe egg allergy
- Severe reaction after a previous dose of influenza vaccine
- History of Guillain-Barre Disease
- Currently with a moderate to severe illness
FluMist Qualifications:
- At least 2 years of age and younger than 50 years of age
- Do not have any of the following conditions:
- Pregnancy
- Lung Disease (including Asthma etc)
- Kidney Disease
- Heart Disease
- Blood Disorders (including Anemias)
- Metabolic Disease (including Diabetes and Liver Disease
- Neuromuscular Disease
- Weakened Immune System
- On immunosuppressive agents including steroid therapy
- Currently have significant nasal congestion and unable to breathe through the nose
