With the approaching flu season almost underway, the VA will offer any veteran 65 years or older, or those with chronic respiratory problems the high-dose flu vaccine. This particular vaccine will include three strains of the flu, including the H1N1.The high-dose vaccine will reduce the number of elderly patients sickened or killed by influenza this year.
Dr. Marvin Bittner, acting chief of infectious diseases for the VA’s Nebraska-Western Iowa regions said, “he and other physicians in the region this year considered what would best protect senior citizens against the flu. Our answer was high-dose.”
For veterans who may have been in contact with asbestos, while serving on military ship are highly encouraged to receive the vaccine. Patients with mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer that forms in the lungs and abdomen, should take full advantage of the high-dose vaccine, for these veterans are especially susceptible to all strains of the flu.
Lyle Cave, Army veteran who uses VA medical services said, “he’s satisfied that the higher does is right for him if that’s what his doctor recommends.”
The high-dose vaccine will be for VA members, especially those who may have come into contact with asbestos free of charge at their local VA. The 21 VA regions are the only facilities that will automatically offer the high-dose vaccine to senior citizens, and mesothelioma patients.
Dr. Rich Martinello of Washington, D.C. said, “I think that there’s enough data right now that I personally am enthusiastic about it.”
