Two big things we hear every year in the flu season the flu vaccine

by Rizwan Khan Professional Interior Designer

Effectiveness rates can fluctuate from year to year based on the strain of flu that circulating. In general, the flu vaccine is about 60 percent effective. In some years, it has been up to 90 percent effective at preventing the flu.

No, the shot will not give you the flu. That is a common myth. Sometimes people experience flu-like symptoms after receiving the vaccine because they are having a reaction to the vaccine. They may experience muscle aches or fatigue for a day or two as their body produces protective antibodies to fight the flu. The flu vaccine also takes about two weeks to become effective. Some people have unlucky timing and get the flu during this time. More often than not, people catch other illnesses such as a cold, which may produce flu-like symptoms.

What else should I do to prevent catching the flu?

The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each flu season, but good health habits like washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent illnesses like the cold and flu.

The proper way to wash your hands is to wet them with clean, running water (warm or cold) and apply soap. Lather your hands by rubbing them together. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. If you need a timer, hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. Rinse your hands well and dry them using a clean towel or air dry them.

If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol to clean hands.

Other good health habits include covering your cough; avoiding close contact with people who are sick; staying home when you are sick; and practicing a healthy lifestyle by getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food.

Where can someone get the flu shot during flu season 2018?

Our First Response Doctor on Call – General Physician can answer any questions about the flu shot and come to your home to get you and your loved ones vaccinated in the comfort of your home. For an appointment call our 24 Hour Customer Service Helpline at 050 5050 387

What is Influenza (Flu)?

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each flu season.

Flu Symptoms

Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

·fever*

·cough

·sore throat

·runny or stuffy nose

·body aches

·headache

·chills

·fatigue

·sometimes diarrhea and vomiting