This fall CSL Plasma is providing influenza (flu) vaccination vouchers to plasma donors in the United States.
"We believe receiving a flu vaccine is an important action a person can take to help prevent the flu each year," said Dr. Jennifer Hanes, Division Medical Director, U.S. Plasma Operations, CSL Plasma. "While receiving a flu vaccine does not eliminate the possibility of contracting the flu, research shows the flu vaccine has helped reduce related illnesses and the risk of serious complications that can lead to hospital stays or even loss of life."
Donors can redeem vouchers for the vaccine at no cost at Walgreens pharmacy locations across the U.S. after two donations in a calendar month. As with any vaccine, individuals should discuss potential risks and any further questions they have with a health care provider.
Donors are eligible to donate plasma after getting the flu vaccine or the COVID-19 vaccine. Human plasma is vital to producing therapies used around the world to treat a number of rare and serious diseases.
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect a person's nose, throat and lungs. The flu can result in mild to severe illness. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on average, about 8% of the U.S. population gets sick from flu each season.
Annual vaccination is vital as influenza can be hard to predict, viruses that cause flu constantly change and immunity from vaccination declines over time, according to the CDC.
