Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Flu shots for 2011/2012

08/29/2011

Question:

Every year I get the flu shot. Last year I went to the doctor twice and he told me that I had the flu and bronchitis. I had to go back to him again the last time I had the flu and he had to give me another round of antibiotics. I am taking immunesurpressents.

I think that last time I had a bit of Pneumonia because I had a hard time breathing. I herd that you can still get the flu if you had the flu shot but not as bad. I am wondering how bad could it have been if I ended up with Pneumonia even with the flu shot. Is this true and should I get one this year? I am not sure if it will do any good to get one.

Answer:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older receive an annual influenza (flu) vaccination. You should get a flu shot this year, especially since you would be considered to be at higher risk of having complications from an influenza infection because of your history of taking immune suppressants and having had bronchitis.

For more information:

Go to the Cold and Flu health topic.