Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that impacts many people globally each year. Therefore there are many reasons why receiving a flu vaccine is highly recommended.
Reasons to Get the Flu Vaccine
As time passes, an individual's immunity to the flu can decrease, making yearly flu vaccines crucial in maintaining proper immunity. Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to incorporate the most commonly circulating strains of the flu virus.
Approximately two weeks after vaccination, the flu vaccine trigger the body’s immune response to produce antibodies. These antibodies protect against infection with the viruses used to make the vaccine.
If an individual is exposed to the flu virus in the future, the immune system is ready to recognise and fight it, reducing the risk of illness and severe symptoms.
In certain people, especially the vulnerable groups like young children, eldery people, and immunocompromised individuals, the flu can potentially lead to severe health issues, including pneumonia, hospitalisation, and, in severe cases, death.
Receiving the flu vaccine decreases the risk of serious complications and lessens the severity of symptoms if an infection occur. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu vaccine can reduce the risk of flu illness by up to 60%.
Everyone is encouraged to get a flu vaccine, regardless of age or health, as the flu can affect anyone. In addition to protecting yourself, getting a flu vaccine also helps protect vulnerable groups who may be more susceptible to the flu virus as mentioned earlier.
The cost of getting a flu vaccine is less compared to the expenses associated with treating flu-related health problems or taking time off work or school.
Process of Making the Flu Vaccine
The process begins with the selection of the strains of the flu virus that are expected to circulate in the upcoming flu season.
These selected flu virus strains are grown in a laboratory, usually in eggs or cell cultures, to produce a large amount of virus. The virus is then inactivated so that it is no longer capable of causing disease but still retains the ability to trigger an immune response. All other ingredients in the vaccine are thoroughly tested with various scientific experiments and are considered safe.
Once the vaccine is processed, it is tested for safety and effectiveness, approved for use by the regulatory authority, and distributed to healthcare providers for patient administration.
Side Effects of Flu Vaccination
After receiving the flu vaccine, some individuals may experience mild symptoms. These usually occur within a day or two of the vaccine and disappear within a few days.
Some of the most prevalent mild side effects include slight discomfort at the injection site, fatigue, mild muscle aches, and low-grade fever. These side effects are usually mild and short-lived, indicating that the body is building immunity to the flu. They can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
While the flu vaccine is proven to be safe, serious side effects can rarely occur in some individuals. These include seizures, Guillain-Barré syndrome (a rare condition that can cause weakness or paralysis), and anaphylaxis (a rare but life-threatening allergic reaction)
If you experience any severe or persistent symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you have any doubts regarding the flu vaccine, or if you want to get a flu vaccine for your child, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Paediatric Care Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.
