Influenza is a viral infection that affects your respiratory system. It is also commonly called the flu and seasonal influenza outbreaks usually happen in winter and occur as early as October and continue till May.
While the flu may seem like a common cold, it will feel much worse. The symptoms include:
The virus is extremely contagious and is air borne which means it will spread through coughing and sneezing. As per studies, getting a flu vaccination reduces the risk of getting influenza by 40%-60%.
The influenza virus is known for its high rate of mutation due to which it is highly unpredictable. The vaccine is updated each year keeping the severity of the virus and timing of the season in mind.
A Flu vaccine is capable of protecting you against the four main Influenza viruses that are expected to be the most common during that year’s flu season. While the best time to get vaccinated is before the flu season begins, it is still beneficial if you get the shot sometime during the flu season too.
A Flu vaccine may not prevent you from getting influenza. However, it can reduce the severity of the symptoms and save you from getting hospitalised.
While a single dose of the Flu vaccine should be administered to adults, 2 doses are recommended for children being vaccinated for the first time. Children between the age of 6months – 8years, should be administered the first dose early in the flu season and the second dose at least 4 weeks later.
Find your nearest Aster Clinic and walk-in for a Flu vaccine today and protect yourself and your family against the flu.