Get answers from Duke to common questions about seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines.

Seasonal Flu Shot

Who should receive the seasonal flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone receive the seasonal flu vaccine. Those considered at high risk for flu include children less than five years old, pregnant women, adults and children who have chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems, and persons aged 65 years or older. Babies under the age of six months cannot receive the flu vaccine; however, parents and members of the household should be vaccinated.

Do you have preservative- or mercury-free vaccine for children?

We expect to have a supply of preservative-free vaccine. However, we cannot guarantee that we will have preservative-free vaccine on the date of your visit, as our supplies and shipments of pediatric flu vaccine are determined by the state.

Do you have FluMist (nasal spray)?

Yes. Whether FluMist is recommended for you or your child will be determined at the time of your visit. FluMist is not used for children under two years of age.

Will my child need two shots/vaccines this year for seasonal flu?

Children over the age of six months who have received two vaccines in a previous season will need only one shot this year for seasonal flu. If your child has never had the vaccine before, he or she will need two vaccines this season. The timing of the second vaccine will be determined at your first visit.

Do I need to make a separate appointment for a flu shot if I or my child have a regular visit scheduled?

If you or your child already have a visit scheduled, the flu shot can be given at the time of this visit. You do not need to schedule a separate flu shot appointment in this circumstance.

Will the regular flu vaccine protect me against H1N1 influenza?

No. The seasonal flu shot is still important with winter approaching, but it does not protect against H1N1 flu.

What will the flu shot cost?

Flu shots are generally covered by your insurance. We will file a claim for you.

H1N1 Flu Shot

Who should receive the H1N1 influenza vaccine?

The H1N1 influenza is recommended for pregnant women, children between ages six months and 24 years, health care workers, those with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems, and parents and members of the household of those children less than six months.

What if I am older than 65 years of age?

Current studies show the risk to those over 65 years of age is lower than other groups. For this reason, we are concentrating vaccination initially toward those at highest risk.

Has the H1N1 vaccine been tested?

The H1N1 vaccine has been tested thoroughly and is approved by the FDA for use. There is already extensive data on its safety and effectiveness from both the U.S. and also the southern hemisphere. It is manufactured in the same way as the regular flu shot.

Who should get the H1N1 FluMist?

As with the seasonal FluMist, the intranasal vaccine is not suitable for those with compromised immunity, pregnant women, or those with severe chronic medical conditions. It is recommended for those between ages two and 49 years of age.

Will I need one dose or two?

If you are older than 10, you will need a single dose of the H1N1 vaccine. Currently the FDA has approved two doses for those children younger than 10 years, spaced by at least three weeks.

What will the flu shot cost?

Flu shots are generally covered by your insurance. We will file a claim for you.

Where can I find the H1N1 vaccine?

Duke is planning to have the H1N1 vaccine available at most clinics and hospitals, with special vaccination clinics for those at high risk. Check dukehealth.org/flu for updates on vaccination sites.