11/26/07+ National Influenza Vaccination Week November 26 - December 2, 2007
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the week after Thanksgiving, November 27 to December 2, as National Influenza Vaccination Week. This event is designed to highlight the importance of continuing influenza (flu) vaccination, as well as foster greater use of flu vaccine through the months of November, December and beyond.
This year, Tuesday November 27, 2007, is set aside as Children’s Flu Vaccination Day, with a focus on vaccinating high-risk children. Each year, over 20,000 children under age 5 are hospitalized as a result of influenza. This day will help raise awareness about the value of vaccinating children—especially high-risk children—and their close contacts.
FLU SEASON What Time of Year Is the Flu More Common? The flu season usually begins when cold weather appears. Why? There’s no real reason. It’s simply the pattern of the flu and the timing of the seasons.
Outbreaks of the flu occur in different seasonal patterns depending on the region in the world. In temperate climate zones, flu season will typically begin in the late fall and peak in mid- to late winter. And in tropical zones, flu seasons appear to be less pronounced, with year-round isolation of the virus.
Flu Season in the United States In the United States, the flu season is generally considered between October and May with the peak of the season falling between late December and March.
However, the overall health of flu impact varies from year to year. Unfortunately, infection, hospitalizations, and deaths can’t be predicted, but by knowing about treatments and being prepared, the dangers of the flu can be minimized. (Click to find out more about preparation with vaccination, antivirals, OTC treatment options and non-medical alternatives).
Our FluTracker application can inform you on where the flu is at all times — so you can prepare yourself and your family. http://www.flufacts.com/know/