Which Flu Vaccine Should You Get This Year?

What is the influenza virus? Influenza is an acute respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses. There are several groups and sub-groups of influenza A. The virus is transmitted through respiratory secretions during the winter season. For the average person, they are contagious for 5 days; however, people with underlying health conditions such as heart failure can be contagious for up to 10 days or more.What are the types of vaccines?In each flu vaccine, there are two influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2), and either one or two influenza B viruses. There are several manufacturers who manufacture the flu vaccine each year, so it is likely that you may not receive the same vaccine as someone else you know. The following are the most common vaccine types available for the 2020-2021 influenza season:Standard Dose Quadrivalent/Trivalent Inactivated Vaccine: The quadrivalent vaccine protects against four different influenza viruses: two influenza A, and two influenza B. The trivalent vaccine protects against three different types.High-Dose Quadrivalent Inactivated Vaccine: People 65 years of age and older may opt to receive the high-dose vaccine. In most jurisdictions, this is the most expensive vaccine. It is quadrivalent and contains four times the antigen as standard-dose vaccines. The antigen is the component of the vaccine that helps enhance immunity against the virus. The high-dose vaccine is 24% more effective than the standard dose vaccines in preventing the flu in people over 65 years of age.2Live Attenuated Vaccine (nasal spray): For people 2-49 years of age who do not want to receive an injection, the nasal spray is another option. It should not be used in pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions. It should also be used cautiously in certain groups, such as people with heart disease, given that this is a live vaccine.Does it matter which vaccine you get?Simply put, no. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the annual flu shot for everyone 6 months of age and older. They do not state a preference for one vaccine over the other. For most people with heart disease, the standard dose inactivated vaccine is an ideal option. If you are over 65 years of age, the high-dose quadrivalent inactivated vaccine may offer greater protection. Speak to your doctor if you have questions about which vaccine is best for you.