Influenza or common cold or “flu” as we call it, is caused by the influenza virus. It is typically very harmless and self-resolving in most individuals but some patients with underlying lung diseases can be especially prone to it and develop secondary bacterial infection or pneumonia after infection by an influenza virus.
An influenza vaccine or “flu shot” is prepared new every year from three or four common variants of influenza that are causing outbreaks in that year. It is a safe and effective vaccine. It is given as an intramuscular jab in months just before winter- September to November. A flu vaccine is the single best method to prevent influenza.
Who should receive the vaccine?
- elderly (aged 65 or above)
- patients with chronic lung diseases (asthma, COPD, etc.)
- patients with chronic heart diseases (congenital heart disease, chronic heart failure, ischaemic heart disease)
- patients with chronic liver diseases (including liver cirrhosis)
- patients who are immunosuppressed (those with HIV or who are receiving drugs to suppress the immune system such as chemotherapy and long-term steroids) and their household contacts
- all people who are working in an environment where influenza can spread rapidly, such as in prisons or nursing homes
- healthcare workers (both to prevent sickness and to prevent spread to patients)
- pregnant women
Who should not receive the vaccine?
- Ever had a severe allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the vaccine.
- Are younger than 18 years of age or older than 49 years of age.
- Guillain Barré Syndrome (severe muscle weakness) after getting a flu shot
- Problems with your immune system as your immune response may be reduced
When to see a doctor?
Book a visit to the doctor asap if you find yourself or your family in the list of individuals who should receive the vaccine as mentioned above.
https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Influenza_vaccine_(patient_information)#cite_note-2
https://patient.info/medicine/influenza-vaccine
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine