Let’s demystify the flu vaccine; it’s a powerful tool in our annual fight against the flu

As each season rolls around, the flu vaccine offers protection against the most common strains of the virus. The flu vaccine is created each year to help reduce the impact of symptoms like fever, chills and body aches that can leave us feeling worn out.

Many people still fall prey to common misconceptions about the flu vaccine. Let’s learn more.

Quick Read:

  • Getting vaccinated helps reduce each person’s flu risk and the spread within our communities.
  • Certain people (pregnant women and the elderly) are more at risk of the flu virus each year.

What is the flu?

Influenza, often shortened to “the flu,” is a respiratory infection. It affects the nose, throat, and occasionally the lungs. The virus doesn’t discriminate; even the healthiest among us can still contract the flu. It spreads mainly through droplets released when someone with the flu sneezes, coughs, or even talks. You could also catch the flu by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth or eyes.

 

Why a new vaccine each year?

The flu virus constantly evolves. This means that the strain circulating this year won’t be identical to last year’s. To keep up, scientists must research and predict the most likely flu strains each season, developing an updated vaccine to match these changes. Although they usually get it right, occasionally a strain will mutate unexpectedly. Unfortunately, this can make the vaccine less effective against that particular strain.

How does the flu vaccine work?

Researchers create the vaccine by combining elements and substances from different flu strains to protect against the ones predicted to be most common. When you receive the flu shot, your immune system recognises these virus fragments and starts building defenses against them. This “training” prepares your body to combat the actual virus if you’re exposed later in the season.

Flu vaccine hygiene

Can the flu vaccine cause the flu?

No, you cannot get the flu from the flu shot. The vaccine contains inactivated virus parts that cannot cause an infection. However, some people might feel mild side-effects, like muscle aches or a low fever. These are simply signs that your body is building immunity.

Does the flu shot work against COVID-19?

The flu vaccine is designed specifically to target influenza viruses and does not offer protection against COVID-19. Sure, it would be great for one vaccine to cover both, but separate vaccines are needed to build immunity to each virus. The flu vaccine typically protects against four different flu virus strains in one shot.

Is the flu really that serious?

While some experience mild symptoms, for others – such as children, pregnant women, and older adults – the flu can lead to serious health complications. It can worsen existing health issues or lead to pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. The good news is that the flu vaccine is considered safe for pregnant women and provides a significant level of protection for people who are most vulnerable.

Help at hand
  • Did you know that a healthy gut can boost your flu defenses? Foods rich in probiotics, like yoghurt and kefir, support your immune system. So, grab that smoothie with a swirl of yoghurt or add some fermented foods to your meals for a tasty health boost.
  • Bundle up in layers and keep warm when you’re out and about in cold weather to give your immune system some extra support.
  • Sunshine gives your body a natural boost of Vitamin D, which is like a little cheerleader for your immune system. Spend a few minutes outdoors each day, or look into a supplement if it’s cloudy. Your body will thank you!
  • We touch our faces without even thinking about it – especially in places like grocery stores or public transport where germs love to linger. Make it a game to notice when you’re about to touch your face and grab a tissue or hand sanitiser instead!
  • Staying hydrated helps keep your body’s natural defenses strong, so keep that water bottle handy. Sipping throughout the day keeps your throat moist, which helps trap pesky germs trying to sneak in. Add a splash of lemon or warm tea for flavour.

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