SHARES
According to the World Health Organisation, inter-pandemic influenza (or the seasonal flu) results in about 3-5 million cases of severe illness and around 250,000 to 500,000 deaths annually worldwide. Studies reveal that in Singapore, about 15 out of 100,000 people die annually due to influenza. Additionally, around 6.5% of underlying pneumonia and influenza deaths are attributable to influenza. It should also be noted that the proportion of influenza deaths might not be that high but the actual number is still alarming because a large number of people are infected by the flu every year. And, when the flu is not fatal, it can still cause severe illness, including pneumonia and heart failure in people with weak immune systems, especially those who are not vaccinated.
Things to know about the influenza or flu vaccine
The Influenza vaccines or flu shots provide protection against infection by influenza viruses. Generally, there are two types of flu vaccines: trivalent and quadrivalent. Trivalent vaccine protects against two strains of Influenza A and one strain of Influenza B and quadrivalent vaccine provides protection against an additional strain of Influenza B. These vaccines help the immune system develop antibodies and are effective after two weeks in most cases.
Who should get vaccinated?
The World Health Organization recommends yearly vaccination for everyone above the age of six months, especially those at high risk.
This includes pregnant women, kids between 6 months and 5 years of age, the elderly and people suffering from long-term conditions like AIDS, asthma and other chronic diseases. Studies show that the vaccination reduces flu risks by 40-60 %. On the other hand, new-born babies, people with allergies to the vaccine and patients suffering from the Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) are not ideally fit for flu vaccines. So, it is important to consult a doctor and understand if you are fit before getting flu shots.
Are there side effects of the flu vaccine?
Like most medications, there are side effects. It should be noted that not everyone is affected by side effects and often there are variances in the severity of each side effect as well. The side effects are:
- Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site (only for flu shot)
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Wheezing
- Vomiting
- Sore throat
- Cough
These side effects are usually mild and short-lived. However, if severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling around the eyes or lips, hives, racing heart, dizziness and high fever) develop, you should seek medical attention immediately.
The vaccine is available to the public through private clinics or hospitals and should be taken at least once every year. There are two main reasons that warrant annual vaccination:
- The body’s immune response from vaccination can decline over time.
- The flu virus constantly changes its outer coat to outsmart the immune system. Therefore, researches are done to ensure that the flu vaccine is updated for optimal protection.
In Singapore, influenza viruses circulate year round owing to its tropical climate. Some people die due to flu and some lose the fight to underlying causes. Many people suffer painful illness due to influenza-related infections. Protect yourself and your loved ones this flu season onwards. Consult a doctor and get vaccinated. Remember the good old saying – “prevention is better than cure.”
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by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.
