Getting to Know Your Annual Flu Shot
The flu shot is one of the most common vaccines in the United States. Each year, nearly half of all Americans are vaccinated against the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that flu shots, on average, reduce the risk of getting the flu by 50 to 60 percent. According to the CDC, “[a] flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your chances of getting the flu and spreading it to others.” As a result, the CDC recommends that every person six months of age and older receive a flu shot every year.
About the Seasonal Flu Vaccine
Influenza (the flu) is an infectious disease that affects more than three million Americans every year. The flu is highly contagious, and its symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. Most people recover in a matter of days or weeks; however, for some, the flu can be fatal. Individuals with compromised immune systems and the elderly (age 65 and older) are the most likely to succumb to complications such as pneumonia arising from the flu.
There are multiple strains of influenza, and in different years, some are more prevalent than others. Because it is not possible to vaccinate against each and every strain – each year, scientists across the globe collaborate to select the strains they believe are likely to be most prevalent during the upcoming flu season. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) then selects the specific vaccines to be administered to the public.
Common Flu Vaccines in the United States
Like all medications in the United States, flu vaccines are subject to FDA approval. Due to the number of strains that are out there, there are several vaccinations that are FDA-approved. These include:
- AFLURIA
- Fluarix
- Fluarix Quadrivalent
- Flublok
- Flucelvax
- FluLaval
- FluLaval Quadrivalent
- FluMist Quadrivalent
- Fluvirin
- Fluzone
- Fluzone Quadrivalent
Where Can I Get My Flu Shot?
Due to the vast number of flu vaccines administered on an annual basis, individuals can receive a flu shot just about anywhere. Doctors’ offices, hospitals, pharmacies, schools and even grocery stores, receive flu shots for administration to the general public.
While individuals have numerous options for where to be vaccinated against the flu, it is important to note that some options may be safer than others; and, in any case, individuals may run the risk of suffering a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA).
What if I Have Experienced Shoulder Pain from a Flu Shot?
If you have experienced shoulder pain after receiving a flu shot, you may be suffering from Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration, or “SIRVA.” Vaccine-related shoulder injuries commonly result from administration errors such as injecting the vaccine too high on the shoulder or too low on the arm. These errors lead to painful complications, and in some cases may require surgery.
Fortunately, individuals claiming vaccine-related shoulder injuries can seek compensation for their medical bills and other losses through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). The Vaccine Program is a no-fault government compensation program that provides money to individuals suffering from vaccine-related injuries. At the Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery, our sole focus is helping clients recover compensation under the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
Suffering From A Flu Shot Shoulder Injury? Contact Us Today
If you or someone you love has experienced shoulder pain after receiving a flu shot, you may be entitled to financial compensation. For more information, contact the Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery to schedule a free consultation. Call us today at 1-844-789-2047.