Ask Dr. Vieder I Lakes Urgent Care in West Bloomfield Who should get a flu shot? The flu shot is indicated for infants older than 6 months and all adults. Any healthy adult who wants to decrease their risk of contracting the flu should get the vaccine. The flu shot is particularly important for anyone who has chronic health problems, diabetes, heart conditions or if you have a weakened immune system. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should also get the flu vaccine. Are there different types of flu shots? How do I know which kind is best for me? There are 2 different types of injectable vaccine and also a nasal spray vaccine. Most healthy individuals between the ages of 2 years and 49 years may opt for the nasal spray if they prefer not to receive an injection. There is also a "high-dose or high- powered" injectable version available which is recommended for adults over the age of 65. When is the best time to get a flu shot? The influenza vaccine is offered every year starting in October or November. Get the influenza vaccine as soon as possible. Children between 6 months and 8 years old need 2 vaccines during the first year they get it. The 2 vaccines should be given 4 or more weeks apart. It is best if the same type of vaccine is given both times. Where should I get a flu shot? Flu vaccines are offered in many places including doctor's offices, urgent care clinics, health departments or some pharmacies. The pricing varies from place to place, usually ranging from $20 - $30. At Lakes Urgent Care, you can get your flu vaccine for $22.00 (or it could be covered by your insurance) and you do not need to have an appointment. Retail locations which offer the vaccine, generally do not participate with any insurance plans, so it will be an out of pocket expense, even if you have coverage. Lakes Urgent Care offers both the regular dose vaccine and high dose vaccine for the same price. Get more info at LakesUrgentCare.com a LAKES URGENT CARE When your health concerns can't wait. • I LAKES URGENT CARE When your health concerns can't wait. We are the areas only certified urgent care center Trusted and experienced emergency physicians on staff Monday-Friday until 10pm I Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 9am - 6pm Lakes Medical Center Building • On Haggerty, just south of Pontiac Trail LakesUrgentCare.com COME IN NOW FOR YOUR FLU SHOT no appointment needed `\.\- URGEATr VC c 4,p <\ Urgent Care Association Of America Dr. Sanford Vieder, Medical Director 1872440 October 31 • 2013 47