A Message from MDA's Medical Director
Regarding Flu Season

Dear MDA Families,

It's hard to believe that flu season is upon us, but since it's that time of year again, I want you to know that MDA is here to help. Influenza — both the seasonal and H1N1 varieties — can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening illness for those affected by neuromuscular disease. That's why it's important to be proactive and take the necessary precautions to stay healthy.

The 2011-2012 influenza vaccine will protect against H1N1, as well as the common influenza B virus and the H3N2 virus. Be sure to check with your doctor before obtaining any vaccine, especially if you're affected by myasthenia gravis, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, or taking immune-suppressing medications such as corticosteroids.

If your current health coverage doesn't include seasonal flu vaccines as a preventative health benefit, MDA's Flu Shot Program can help. We've partnered with Walgreens again this year to help make free flu shots more convenient and accessible for those we serve. To request a voucher for a free flu shot at any of nearly 8,000 Walgreens and Duane Reade pharmacies, including more than 350 Take Care Clinics at select Walgreens, please click here.

It's important, too, for family members and household contacts of those with neuromuscular disease to receive a flu vaccine as early in the season as possible, and for families to watch for early signs and symptoms of the flu so that medical attention can be sought when needed. To help make the influenza vaccine more affordable for family members and in-home caregivers of those affected by neuromuscular disease, MDA offers coupon vouchers that entitle individuals to flu shots at a reduced rate from any Walgreens and Duane Reade pharmacies, including Take Care Clinics. To request a voucher for family members and in-home caregivers of someone affected by neuromuscular disease, click here.

We invite you to visit MDA's Flu Season Resource Center for additional information about influenza, the flu vaccine and how MDA can help you obtain a flu shot. On behalf of MDA, I encourage you to take proactive health precautions to minimize your personal health risks this flu season.

Sincerely yours,

Valerie Cwik, M.D.
MDA Executive Vice President – Research & Medical Director