Flu shots not only prevent the flu, they can help COPD patients fight off potential exacerbations of symptoms, which are periods of time when your COPD may worsen. Why? One of the most common risk factors for a worsening of COPD is catching a serious infection like the flu, so anything you can do to prevent an infection will go a long way in keeping your COPD under control.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends an annual flu shot for people with chronic medical conditions such as COPD. Additionally, the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) advises that getting vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia viruses helps to prevent acute exacerbation of COPD.
Quick Facts About the Flu Shot
The influenza vaccine, otherwise known as the flu shot, is an inactivated vaccine containing a killed virus. The shot is given through a needle, usually in your arm. About 2 weeks following the vaccine, your body will have produced antibodies to protect you against the flu.
When to Get Vaccinated
According to the CDC, the best time to get vaccinated is in October or November, but you can continue to get vaccinated in December, or even later during the year. Flu season usually begins in October and typically lasts into May.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Certain people should receive a flu shot every year, although anyone can get one. The following are the guidelines recommended by the CDC:
- Children age 6 months through 5 years
- Pregnant women
- Those who are 50 years of age or older
- People of any age who gave certain chronic medical conditions (including COPD)
- Those who live in a nursing, convalescent or other long term care facility
Consult your doctor prior to getting a flu shot if you have any of the following:
- Severe allergy to chicken eggs
- If you have had a previous severe reaction to the flu shot
- If you developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome within 6 weeks of having a previous flu shot
- If you are ill with a fever
Side Effects of the Flu Shot
Contrary to popular belief, you cannot get the flu from getting a flu shot, as it contains a killed virus. Minor side effects sometimes occur however, that may mimic flu-like symptoms. These include:
- Redness, soreness and/or swelling at the injection site
- Low grade fever
- Aching
These side effects are usually mild and can start soon after the shot is given, lasting only a day or two.
Most people who receive a flu shot have no problems from it, however, as with any medication or vaccine, severe allergic reactions may sometimes occur.
Still unsure about getting a flu shot? Follow up with your primary care provider for more information.
Source:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention; "Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine" Updated 19 October, 2007.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
Global Strategy for the Diagnosis, Management and Prevention of COPD.Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2006. Available from: http://www.goldcopd.org.
