To Flu Shot or Not?
- Written by
- Deepika Sulekh
Now that Autumn is here, flu season is also just around the corner. Which means it’s a good idea to be proactive and start thinking about building up your immunity. You’ve got a better chance of fighting those viruses when your immune system is strong.
Influenza, commonly called the flu, can be a serious illness, and the best protection is to get an annual flu vaccine. Why do you need it at this time of year? It takes 2 weeks for your bodies to provide the protection from the flu vaccine so you need to start as soon as possible, ensuring you’re protected sooner and have lower chances of spreading it. The flu vaccine covers you from now (March/April) until March next year – the vaccine changes every year because the virus does too. If you’re vaccinated later in the season, you won’t be protected for any longer, but remember it’s never too late.
What are the benefits?
- The flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick with the flu. It’s not only protecting you but your loved ones and anyone that is not able to get the vaccine because of age or immune disorders.
- Getting the vaccine can reduce the risk of flu based hospitalisations for children and adults, helps protect women during and after pregnancy (even the baby after birth), is a preventative tool for chronic health conditions and can make an illness milder if you do get sick.
- Neing fit, healthy and on immune support products will not prevent you from getting the flu, only the vaccine gives you true protection. Influenza can be fatal to you, and to members of your family if it spreads.
People are urged to listen to their doctors, pharmacists and 222 years of scientific research with regards to vaccinations. Read up on flu myths and avoid hoaxes and misinformation that spreads through social media.
Get the shot
The flu vaccine will soon be available at your local doctors and pharmacists. You can also organise vaccinations for your workplace with businesses like Unichem Mainstreet Pharmacy who can come to you.