With concerns over H1N1 influenza on the rise, many are getting a jump on their seasonal flu shots as well. Many health care providers are already offering seasonal flu vaccinations, according to local news reports across the country. This early offering comes in light of the concern that flu season could be tougher than usual, and health officials and the general public are encouraged to do everything they can to keep outbreaks under control.

Who’s Offering Them?

As of September 1, major pharmacy chains like Walgreens and CVS stores are offering seasonal flu vaccines at many of their locations. This is earlier than they offered flu shots last year. Health workers are also getting encouraged to get flu vaccines, even if they never did before. Officials are concerned that if too many workers come down with the seasonal flu, there won’t be sufficient coverage to handle patients with both seasonal flu and H1N1 flu complications, according to a report this week by the Associated Press.

Workers will also be strongly encouraged to get the swine flu vaccine when it arrives on the market in October. New York is currently requiring such vaccinations for certain health care workers, while other states are seriously considering the mandate as well. Many health care workers are not in favor of such a requirement, since they believe it infringes on their individual rights.

Should You Get One?

What should you do about flu vaccinations? When in doubt, the CDC has some guidelines for you to follow. When it comes to the seasonal vaccine, consider these factors:

· Flu vaccines can be received as soon as they become available each season

· People in high risk categories, such as the old, young and those with chronic medical conditions, should get the vaccine without fail

· People with severe allergies to chicken eggs or previous flu vaccinations should not be vaccinated

· Vaccinations should never be given to people running a fever

· Those who do not opt for shots can also consider the nasal mist vaccine

For more information about the seasonal flu vaccine, visit the CDC website.

Swine flu vaccines should be available in October, and they will be offered to high-risk individuals first. These include:

· Pregnant women

· Parents and caretakers of children less than six months old

· Healthcare personnel

· Persons between six months and 24 years of age

· People over 24 who have chronic health conditions

For more information about the swine flu vaccine, visit the CDC website or contact your doctor.