Got Asthma? Get Your Flu Shots!

Resources for Asthma Patients, Parents of Patients, and Healthcare Professionals

Influenza, commonly called "the flu," is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs). People with asthma are more likely to have serious health problems from getting the flu, yet most people with asthma don’t receive a flu shot every year.

This spring, a new influenza virus began causing illness in people and spreading around the world. Originally called “swine flu” because the virus genes were similar to some influenza viruses that infect pigs, the new virus has been named “novel H1N1.” Find out more about novel H1N1 and CDC’s public health response.

Resources for Asthma Patients and Parents of Patients:

If you have asthma, you need to take steps to prevent getting the flu. Respiratory infections such as the flu can affect your lungs, causing an asthma attack. Flu vaccine is the first and most important step you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu.

• Asthma Information for Patients and Parents of Patients
  Respiratory infections like influenza are more serious for patients with asthma because they often can lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease.
• Know What to Do About the Flu Webcast Archive
  This series of Webcasts brings in experts to discuss how the federal government is preparing and responding to the flu outbreak. Questions from the American people are answered by the panel during each broadcast. Watch the September 9th Webcast for Parents and Child Care Providers.
• Flu Shots—Get Vaccinated
  Learn more about the flu, how to prevent it, what to do if you get sick, where to find a flu clinic near you, and actions you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
• CDC Says “Take 3” Actions To Fight The Flu
  These actions will protect against 2009 H1N1 too!

Resources for Healthcare Professionals:

People with asthma are at high risk of developing complications after contracting the influenza virus, yet most people with asthma do not receive an annual flu vaccination. Children and adults with asthma should receive influenza vaccinations.

• Influenza-Associated Pediatric Deaths --- United States, September 2010--August 2011
  Ten percent of influenza-associated pediatric deaths in a recent CDC study were associated with asthma.
• Patients with Asthma: Considerations for Clinicians Regarding 2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus
  Persons with asthma are at higher risk for influenza-related complications, such as pneumonia.
• Healthcare Professionals—H1N1 and Seasonal Influenza
  Find out more about the H1N1 and Seasonal Influenza guidelines and information for clinicians.