5 lesser-known facts about the flu vaccination

Influenza is an illness that affects the respiratory system such as the nose, lungs, and throat. In some extreme situations, it can also lead to death. Hence, it is imperative to get vaccinated against the flu annually. The World Health Organisation claims that around 6,50,000 deaths are related to seasonal influenza. 

One major aspect to keep in mind is that the flu and cold are two separate illnesses; do not consider them the same. Moreover, it is not necessary that if you have flu you might be suffering from fever as well. 

Symptoms of the flu: 

✓ Experiencing body aches or muscle pain
✓ Sore throat and cough
✓ Headaches and fatigue are common
✓ You might also encounter a runny nose
✓ A few patients also complain of diarrhea and vomiting. 

Few preventive measures against Influenza: 

✓ While coughing or sneezing, always ensure that you have your nose and mouth covered
✓ Avoid any contact with an infected person, as much as possible
✓ Make sure that you wash your hands with soap and use a sanitizer
✓ In case you are pregnant, do not hesitate to get a flu shot. Flu can make you and your baby unhealthy and sick, vaccination will ensure to keep your young one safe
✓ People suffering from asthma and pregnant women should avoid nasal flu vaccination. 

Some must-know facts about the flu vaccination: 

1 Flu vaccines stimulate antibodies in our body; these take a period of two to three weeks to progress. It is these antibodies that further safeguard us from flu-related illnesses. 

2 It is recommended to take flu vaccination shots every year. The reason behind this is that over time the body’s resistance or immunity derived from vaccination to fight against the virus experiences a decline. Therefore, annual shots can boost immunity. 

Another crucial reason to undergo annual shots is that flu viruses are not constant; they are frequently mutating or changing. This is precisely the reason why vaccines are updated accordingly. 

3 Flu vaccines do not protect you from the virus of cold or stomach flu. These vaccinations secure you only from the influenza viruses. Influenza A (H1N1), Influenza A (H3N2), and Influenza B viruses are common to affect you. 

4 Some people are skeptical about vaccination. I want you to know that it is absolutely safe. However, one can experience a certain amount of swelling or redness near the vaccinated area, or a few might have headaches or fever. 

5 It is possible for your child to suffer from influenza even though they might have undergone a vaccination. This is because they might have been exposed to its virus much before the vaccination. 

In-time Vaccination aids in eliminating the risk of Influenza or flu. As said by Mahatma Gandhi, “It is health that is the real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” Thus, we need to remember to get our children between the age group of 6 months to 5 years vaccinated every year. 

DISCLAIMER: 
The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative on influenza supported by Sanofi Pasteur India. Sanofi Pasteur bears no responsibility for the content of the blog. One should consult their healthcare provider for any health-related information.