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Now is optimum flu shot time

Respiratory Care Weekly, November 1, 2006

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 15 million to 60 million people in the United States-5% to 20% of the population-will get the flu. Of that, more than 200,000 people will be hospitalized from flu complications, and about 36,000 people will die from flu-related illness. RTs, of course, are on the front lines treating respiratory afflictions, getting more of their fair share of exposure to the virus on the job. 

"The time is now to derive the optimum benefit," said Daniel A. Hussar, professor of pharmacy at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. "Typically, it takes two weeks after receiving the flu shot for its full protective effect to develop. If someone hasn't gotten the shot, it's not too late."

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