Every year the flu is responsible for thousands of avoidable deaths and so everyone over the age of six months should be vaccinated against it, in time for the flu season. It is not always possible to predict how severely you will develop the flu, or the type of complications that may occur but it is possible for it to require hospitalisation and in some cases, fatalities.
The Importance Of Having A Flu Vaccine
Having a flu vaccination can prevent five or six out of ten cases of the flu according to the local Government’s research. It is not only important for you, and your immediate family, but also to generate herd immunity to protect your broader community. Herd immunity is important because not everyone is able to be vaccinated. Young babies and the immuno-compromised members of your community rely on a certain number of vaccinated people in order to be protected.
When Is The Flu Shot Most Most Effective?
The flu shot gives you optimal protection against the flu for up to four months after being vaccinated. It peaks two weeks after being injected so in order to stay safest during the flu season, which usually runs between June and September, with an August peak, it is advisable to have your shot during April or May. it is generally not required to have a second shot as one vaccination is adequate every season. It is recommended that you have a shot every year in order to stay protected against seasonal mutations of the virus.
Healthcare practitioners advise patients of the importance of staying vaccinated against the flu during the Covid-19 pandemic in order to avoid hospitalisation from the flu, and also to avoid unnecessary complications that may arise. This also avoids putting extra strain on the healthcare system that is trying to deal with cases of Covid-19.
Should I Get A Flu Shot?
Anyone who is over the age of six months should have a flu vaccine. This includes children, the elderly and pregnant women. It is especially important for pregnant women to be vaccinated, as they also provide protection to their babies, who may not have the vaccine until at least six months of age.
While the flu shot doesn’t guarantee that you won’t get influenza it can reduce your severity of symptoms if you do contract the virus.
What To Expect From Flu Vaccination?
The flu vaccine is not live, which means you cannot develop flu from the flu shot. It is an individual shot and is administered by injection.
Still need help with answering should I get a flu shot? It’s always best to speak to a general medical practitioner. Please contact us for professional advice: (03) 9699 9121.
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