Newly approved flu vaccine protects against H1N1, seasonal strains

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved a new influenza vaccine that protects against the H1N1 strain as well as seasonal strains of the flu.

Roughly 155 million flu shots and sprays will be distributed in the U.S. during the coming flu season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, new flu guidelines take effect this season. The CDC now recommends that everyone over the age of six months receive the vaccine. (McKnight’s, 2/26/10)

Each year, influenza infection contributes to 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths, primarily among the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.