Populations that should receive annual influenza vaccinations

Persons at increased risk for complications

Persons age 50 years or order
Adults and children with chronic pulmonary or cardiovascular disorders including asthma
Adults and children who required regular medical care or hospitalization in the past year because of chronic metabolic disease, including diabetes mellitus, renal dysfunction, hemoglobinopathies, or immunosuppression.
Children and adolescents age 6 months to 18 years who are on long-term aspirin therapy (they may be at risk for Reye's syndrome after influenza infection).
Pregnant women who will be in the second or third trimester during the influenza season.
Residents of nursing homes or other chronic care facilities that house persons of any age with chronic medical conditions.

Persons who can transmit influenza to those at high risk

Physicians, nurses, emergency response workers, and other personnel in hospital and outpatient settings.
Employees of nursing homes and chronic care facilities who have contact with patients or residents.
Employees of assisted living and residences for patients in high risk groups.
Household members (including children) of patients in high-risk groups.
Home care providers for patients in high-risk groups

Persons age 6 months and older who wish to avoid contracting influenza

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Delayed supply of influenza vaccine and adjunct ACIP influenza recommendations for the 2000-2001 influenza season. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2000;49:6l9-622.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention and control of influenza: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2000;49:1-38.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination level among adults aged >65 years. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 1998:47:797-302.
Begany T. Important changes to CDC's Flu Recommendations. Respiratory Reviews. 2000;5(8):5.