We’re currently enjoying a period of grace amid medical advancements against contagious diseases like influenza, whooping cough, and pneumonia. Thanks to 19th and 20th Century discoveries such as the ability to create antibiotics from common bacteria, people in our age take for granted their protection from the most horrific and deadly diseases of one or two centuries ago. One example of this that comes instantly to mind is the development of annual vaccines against certain strains of the flu; however, many people do not take advantage of the protection offered and neglect to receive the vaccine. The flu is still one of the most painful and frightening viral infections in the world, particularly the strains associated with birds.
Since it is easy for us to overlook the dangers of diseases that could be prevented with vaccinations. While no flu vaccine can protect against all possible strains that might circulate in a given year, even getting some protection against a particular strain can sometimes help protect you against the others as well. Here is some information on the flu and its statistics that I hope will help you make the best decision regarding you vaccinations for any children in your care.
