Add Up Articles Directory | Free Articles | New Articles Daily | Fluzone® Influenza Vaccine Stops the Deadly Spread of Flu

Influenza is a highly contagious and deadly disease that strikes every year. For most people, the best way tohalt the deadly spread of flu is to get an annual flu vaccine. Flu virus vaccines, such as Fluzone® by sanofipasteur, Inc., are essential in the fight against influenza (commonly known as the flu). Fluzone is just one of several effective flu vaccines distributed by FFF Enterprises, the nation’s most trusted distributor of vaccines and biopharmaceuticals. Other flu vaccines distributed by FFF include Fluvirin®, manufactured byNovartis Vaccines, and Afluria®, manufactured by CSL Biotherapies.

Fluzone flu vaccine contains three inactivated (killed) influenza viruses: type A (H1N1), type A (H3N2) and type B. It is available in both pediatric and adult formulations, in prefilled syringes and multi-dose vials.Fluzone HD (high dose) is recommended for seniors aged 65 and older and is also available for the 2011-12 fluseason. Seniors are actually at high risk for flu-related complications – every flu season individuals over the age of 65 account for 63 percent of the hospitalizations and 90 percent of the deaths from seasonal flu.The new Fluzone HD addresses the unique needs of this high-risk group and is obviously extremely valuablefrom a public health perspective.

Each year flu-related complications kill more people than all vaccine-preventable diseases combined. While some flu seasons seem milder than others, flu is unpredictable and should never be taken lightly. Last year the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) changed their flu shot guidelines and began urging everyone aged 6 months and up to get vaccinated against influenza. And, by utilizing safe and effective vaccines such as Fluzone, individuals can help protect themselves and avoid spreading the flu to others.To make access to influenza vaccines easier, FFF trail-blazed an innovative program called MyFluVaccine(www.MyFluVaccine.com) in 2006. Unlike the traditional influenza vaccine distribution system, with its uncertain delivery dates and quantities, MyFluVaccine gives healthcare providers the ability to request their delivery dates and quantities, making clinics easier to plan.

In addition to easy online ordering, the MyFluVaccine website provides news, updates, resources and clinic planning tools. There are special informative sections for consumers and employer groups, as well as providers. FFF has also produced a “Flu Vaccine Myths & Facts” brochure that is downloadable as a PDF from the website, or as a printed booklet that healthcare providers can order for their patients.

Safe and effective flu vaccines like Fluzone can be used by healthcare professionals to help improve vaccine compliance. Now is the time to plan for the 2011/2012 flu vaccine season. For more information, visit www.MyFluVaccine.com.