The flu seasonal preparations can sometimes start even before the dead of winter — concerned citizens often make sure that vaccination is on the top of the “to-do” list. Vaccination has proven to be one of the most reliable methods to prevent individuals from contracting and spreading the flu virus, so it is important to be aware of the different types of flu vaccinations available, the benefits they can provide in helping protect both individuals and society, and how regularly they should be given. With an understanding of these topics, knowledge is power, and is key to helping protect oneself and those around for the flu season.
1. Beat the Flu with Vaccination: Why, What, and When
Flu season is here and the best way to stay healthy is to get vaccinated! Vaccination is the most effective and most important way to protect against getting the flu. Here are a few points to consider when it comes to getting vaccinated:
Why Should I Get Vaccinated?
Getting vaccinated can save your life! Being vaccinated reduces the likelihood of any contagious diseases, including the flu, from spreading throughout your community. Vaccination is especially important for those who are in high-risk groups, including young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
What Vaccines Are Available?
- Inactivated Influenza Vaccine: A yearly vaccine for people 6 months of age and older; protection begins around two weeks after the shot is given.
- Recombinant Influenza Vaccine: An approved vaccine for people 18 years and up; this vaccine is created in a lab and is egg-free.
- Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine: An approved vaccine for those between 2 and 17 years old; the virus is weakened so the risk of it causing flu-like symptoms is low.
When Should I Get Vaccinated?
The best time to get vaccinated is at least two weeks prior to flu season. Vaccination typically lasts around six months, meaning it is important to get vaccinated every year. Keep in mind that some vaccines can take two weeks to take full effect, so being vaccinated early is very important.
2. Arm Yourself with Knowledge: Types and Advantages of Flu Vaccination
Immunizing yourself and your family against flu requires the right kind of knowledge. Vaccination is the most effective way of fighting the flu virus and keeping it away from you.
Types of Flu Vaccines:
- Trivalent Vaccine – protects against 3 flu viruses.
- Quadrivalent Vaccine – protects against 4 flu viruses.
- High Dose Vaccine – creates more antibodies against influenza virus than regular dose vaccine.
- Nasal Spray Vaccines – given through nose using droppers.
It is important to choose the right flu vaccine as per your age, medical history and the type of flu activity going on in your surroundings.
Advantages of Getting Vaccinated:
- It helps in reducing the severity of the disease.
- It assists in preventing the spread of the virus.
- Enhances the body’s immune system against the fight against flu.
- Reduces the risk of hospitalization and need for medical attention.
Though flu shots may come with some flu-like symptoms, they are much milder compared to those of natural flu. Employ the wisdom of getting vaccinated and protect yourself from the dreaded influenza!
3. Be Prepared: When Flu Vaccines Should be Renewed Annually
Having an up-to-date flu vaccine is an essential part of staying healthy and preventing the spread of seasonal flu. Although flu season can last for months, early action is essential to ensure protection from influenza. Everyone six months or older should get a current flu vaccine every season, even if they were vaccinated last year. Here are the reasons why it’s important to be prepared and get a flu shot every year:
- The viruses which cause the flu are constantly changing, so the vaccine used to combat them gets changed alongside them.
- People’s immunity levels naturally decline over time. Raising the levels of antibodies in the body with a shot every year is crucial!
- Every year, new strains of Influenza are discovered, so a vaccine which was valid last year may not be enough to keep you protected from something new.
The best time to get a yearly flu shot is as soon as the vaccine is available, which is usually in early Fall. It takes around two weeks for the antibodies created by the flu shot to become active in the body, so quicker you get it, the better. If you miss this window, you can still get a flu shot later in the season.
So what are you waiting for? Get your flu shot now!
4. Take the Right Steps: Is Vaccination Right for You?
Deciding whether or not to get vaccinated is a decision you make as an individual, and it’s important to weigh the evidence that’s out there in order to make an informed decision. Here are a few things to consider:
- Benefits of Vaccination – Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have for preventing illness and protecting against serious diseases in both children and adults. Vaccines can prevent disability and in some cases, even death.
- Risks of Vaccination – As with any medication or medical treatment, there are potential risks, including allergic reactions and other side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors.
- Know the Facts – It’s important to be aware of the most up-to-date information about the diseases you are being vaccinated against. Check with your doctor, online sources, and other reputable sources of information to understand the facts.
When making the decision about whether or not to get vaccinated, it’s important to gather as much information as possible and talk to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can help you understand the potential risks and benefits and can help you decide what is best for you and your family.
5. Keep Everyone Healthy: Children and Flu Vaccination
This time of year, safeguarding children from the flu is an especially pressing priority for parents and carers. It’s important to remember that the only defence a child has against the flu is to get vaccinated every year. The vaccine takes a few weeks to become effective, so don’t delay!
Vaccination is recommended for all children aged six months and older, including the elderly who care for them. It can be especially dangerous for infants and children under the age of five to contract the virus. Vaccines for children are available in nasal spray form (for those aged from two to 17 years old) and in the form of an injection (for those aged six months and older).
- Reduce Flu Risk: Vaccination is vital to reduce the risk of catching and spreading the virus and to protect those most vulnerable.
- More than one vaccine: There is more than one flu vaccine available and if your child has not been immunised yet, speak to your healthcare provider about which vaccine is right for them.
- Stay Covered and Protected: Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and wash your hands frequently or use a hand sanitiser to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Don’t forget the natural remedies too: make sure your child gets plenty of rest and nutrition; keep him/her well hydrated; raise the temperature of the room; make sure he/she wears warm, comfy clothes; keep him/her away from sick friends, family and other children; and, lastly, help boost his/her immune system with multivitamins and herbal remedies.
Feeling well prepared? Now that you have an understanding of the benefits of the flu vaccination, the various varieties available, and the annual recommended timelines, you can be that much more confident in proactively protecting yourself and your family against the flu.
