According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this year’s formulations of the flu shot are a good match for the current viral strains.
All US flu vaccines are quadrivalent and designed to target 4 different flu viruses: Influenza A(H1N1) virus, Influenza A(H3N2) virus, and Two influenza B viruses. Of the influenza A viruses seen in the US so far this year, 79% have been the A(H3N2) strain, while 21% have been A(H1N1), CDC data shows.
Those at high risk for serious flu complications include older people, young children, people with certain health conditions or compromised immune systems. Anyone 6 months of age and older are encouraged to get a flu vaccine. State Health Director Dr. Elizabeth Tilson encourages North Carolinians to get their annual flu vaccine to protect themselves and their loved ones.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has an easy way to help you find a flu shot provider. Click here to get your shot.
Read the full Flu Shot article here. Learn more about Seasonal Influenza from NCDHHS here.
Check the latest NC flu numbers by clicking here.