11/18/16

When most of us think about November, we think of colder weather, snow, and Turkey.  In my job, I also think about vaccines and flu shots!  This is the perfect time to go and get your flu shot!  Influenza, or 'the flu' as most of us know it, can make us so ill we are out of work or school for up to 2 weeks.  It commonly has complications, such as pneumonia!  The flu shot prevents influenza.  And no, it does not give you the flu!  Make an appointment at your care providers today!

It is also the time of year when school nurses are making sure all students are compliant with the vaccine requirements of the state.  The Vermont Health Department requires a TDaP for all students entering 7th grade.  As of this year, there is no longer a philosophical exemption for vaccines.

The TDaP prevents Tetanus, Diptheria, and Pertussis.  Even though your child may have had a tetanus shot 5 or 6 years ago, their immunity to pertussis had declined significantly.  It is important to protect this age group from pertussis so they do not pass it to infants who are not completely immunized.  Pertussis causes violent coughing and can be fatal for babies.  Please make sure your child has this vaccine to protect the little ones in our community!  And remember, they can't attend school without it!!!

So wash your hands, throw away your dirty tissues, and eat lots of vegetables with your turkey!!