Nov
21
Cold temperatures and frost have reduced most of the outdoor allergens across the Chicago area, bringing much-needed relief for allergy and asthma sufferers. Unfortunately, cooler temperatures also result in more colds and respiratory illnesses. With flu season upon us, it is time for you and your family to prepare. If you have not done so already, people with asthma and other chronic health conditions should receive their flu shot as soon as possible.
The influenza season normally ranges from November through March. Peak months are generally December, January and February. The symptoms of the flu, which include fever, chills, generalized muscle pains, headache, fatigue and cough, can be especially severe for patients with respiratory diseases, such as asthma. In some cases, the influenza virus can damage the lungs, and influenza may make patients more susceptible to pneumonia. In severe cases influenza can be fatal.
Research suggests that the influenza vaccine decreases the risk of asthma exacerbations in patients by as much as 22% to 41%. In addition, the vaccine also protects against acute asthma exacerbations in children. Vaccinating children could prevent up to 78% of pediatric asthma hospitalizations and emergency room visits during influenza seasons.
You cannot get the flu from the flu shot. If you feel sick with flu-like symptoms after the shot, it’s because your immune system is responding to the vaccine – making you feel mildly ill. The flu shot may pose some concern for people allergic to eggs. The influenza vaccine is grown in chicken eggs. Although almost all the egg protein is filtered out of the vaccine, people with egg allergy should check with their allergist/immunologist before receiving the flu shot.
Discuss any questions that you may have regarding asthma and influenza or the flu shot with your physician. For more information, visit the AAAAI Website, www.aaaai.org, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Website www.cdc.gov/flu/, or call the CDC Immunization Hot Line at (800) 232-2522.
Asthma is a chronic disease, and requires continuous management and appropriate treatment. You and your allergist/immunologist can work together on these goals to ensure that your asthma is well-managed. Having asthma should not stop you from participating in normal activities.
For more information, please contact Asthma & Allergyat 630-545-7833. We have four locations - Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Naperville, and Plainfield - to serve you.