New survey from CVS/pharmacy sheds light on flu prevention

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — Three-in-five U.S. adults are not aware of the importance of the high-dose flu vaccine in flu prevention for adults ages 65 years and older, according to a new survey from CVS/pharmacy. The high-dose vaccine contains four times the antigens as the regular flu vaccine and is meant to create a stronger immune response for seniors who are more sucesptible to developing severe illnesses related to the flu.



Additionally, the survey revealed the following:

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  67% of employed Americans would go to work even if they were feeling sick with flu-like symptoms;


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  44% of individuals who receive a flu vaccine each year get it administered at a primary care physician's office; and


• 
  59% report that they plan to get a flu shot this year.

"Getting an annual flu shot is the best way to help prevent the spread of influenza, especially for seniors who are more susceptible to developing complications from the flu," said Papatya Tankut, RPh, VP of pharmacy affairs at CVS Caremark. "The results of our consumer survey indicate the need for greater awareness among all Americans to understand the benefits of getting vaccinated and assisting older loved ones in making the decision, as well."



All CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations have begun to offer vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone who is at least 6 months of age get a flu shot as soon as the vaccine becomes available.