What universal flu shot programs are in place right now?:
New vaccine could mean end to annual flu shots, meanwhile there are flu shot programs in certain communities for everyone
A universal flu shot program is on the horizon, where everyone would be able to get a single flu shot that protects against all strains of the flu virus, and would significantly reduce all of the problems associated with the flu in this country and around the world. This seasonal illness produces body aches, fever, vomiting, and leaves many people in a state where they are barely able to get out of bed and may need to be hospitalized. While there are drugs like Tamiflu that can stop the flu virus in its tracks, they do not always work if they are not taken quickly enough. Preventing the flu virus makes it possible to avoid hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and even deaths from influenza, so a universal flu vaccine program would have effects beyond fewer sick days and more free time for people who don't have to care for sick children or relatives.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: People who are allergic to eggs may have problems with many kinds of flu shots. However, new ways of synthesizing vaccines may not only reduce the danger to people with allergies, it may also make it possible to turn around a vaccine much faster, which was the major concern during the H1N1 Swine Flu scare as well as instances where vaccines got recalled and there were no alternative supplies, so there was a shortage of vaccines that caused a different kind of panic.