What does this mean for you? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended that physicians and other providers postpone their influenza clinics. Some shipments of the vaccine will be delayed as late as early December.

It takes about 10 days to develop protection after receiving the vaccine. Since the flu season in Michigan does not usually occur until late December or January, this still leaves enough time for the vaccine to provide immunity against influenza.

All of those persons who are at high risk for complications from influenza should be

The CDCP also recommends that people in the following categories should get the vaccine:

1) under 50 with chronic conditions such as diabetes, emphysema, anemia and diseases of the lung, heart and kidneys, especially if those illnesses hospitalized them last year,
2) people with household members who have those chronic conditions,
3) children and teens who take aspirin long term for another condition,
4) and health care workers treating the chronically ill at nursing homes, hospitals or physician offices.

If you have any questions regarding the influenza vaccine, or when and where you can receive your vaccination, contact your physician or your local health care provider.