ACP reminds public to get flu shots during National Influenza Week

ACP is reminding physicians and the public to get their H1NI and seasonal flu shots--if they haven't already--during National Influenza Week, Jan. 10-16. While vaccination rates typically decline after November, flu viruses can circulate well into the spring and summer. ACP president Joseph W. Stubbs, FACP, says that getting vaccinated is key in preventing a potential third wave of H1N1. Between April and November 2009, the H1N1 virus infected more than 45 million Americans, resulting in more than 200,000 hospitalizations, and complications from seasonal flu place a similar burden on the health care system each year. More information about adult vaccination and resources are available online.

National Influenza Vaccination Week was established to highlight the importance of continuing influenza vaccination, as well as foster greater use of flu vaccine after the holiday season into January and beyond. Every year, certain days are designated to highlight the importance for vaccination of certain groups. The remainder of this year's schedule is as follows:

• Tuesday, Jan. 12: People with chronic conditions that put them at high risk for serious influenza-related complicationsWednesday, Jan. 13: Children, pregnant women and caregivers of infants less than 6 months oldThursday, Jan. 14: Young adults (19 to 24 years old)Friday, Jan. 15: SeniorsSaturday: Wrapup

More information on National Influenza Vaccination Week is available online.