What is Flu?
Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses which circulate in all parts of the world. It represents a year-round disease burden. It causes illnesses that range in severity and sometimes lead to hospitalization and death. Most people recover from fever and other symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention. However, influenza can cause severe illness or death, particularly among high risk groups including the very young, the elderly, pregnant women, health workers and those with serious medical conditions. In temperate climates, seasonal epidemics occur mainly during winter, while in tropical regions, influenza may occur throughout the year, causing outbreaks more irregularly.
What are the symptom of Flu?
The flu is often compared to the common cold, although it can feel much worse. Common symptoms of the flu are: These symptoms can present themselves differently in different people. Children & adults may experience varying symptoms of the same condition. Additional symptoms to be aware of during flu season are:
1 Children: Troubled breathing, chest pain, dry mouth, no tears when crying, lack of energy, diarrhoea, & an erratic pattern of coughs & fever.
2 Adults: Sudden onset fever.
3 cough (usually dry).
4 Headache.
5 Muscle and join pain.
6 Severe malaise (feeling unwell).
7 Sore throat and runny nose.
8 Troubled breathing.
Why should people get vaccinated against the flu?
The flu can be extremely distressing, & even fatal at times. The flu vaccine is highly recommended to protect you from this severe illness & hospitalization. People who have chronic medical conditions may find that they worsen if they catch the flu.
A flu vaccination safeguards people from cardiac events & respiratory conditions. It also protects the health of expectant mothers during & after their pregnancy. With children, a flu shot will protect their developing immune system from fatalities.
How do flu vaccines work?
A flu vaccine acts as a training program for your immune system. It helps your immune system generate defensive antibodies. These antibodies, now having experienced a mild version of the flu, are ready & trained in combating it if you do catch the flu from an external source.
It can take two weeks to develop immunity against the flu. An annual flu shot is recommended as your immune system’s antibody count fades over time. The flu virus changes & adapts every year, which is why it’s so widespread & difficult to avoid. New vaccines are created & released every year to keep up with these rapid changes. Getting the shot just before flu season will equip your body to fight it.
When should I get the flu vaccine?
Flu season falls in autumn & winter. It’s recommended in UAE in late Nov, December and beginning January and February.
Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?
The flu virus can rapidly evolve & your body’s immune system needs to stay updated in order to fight a potentially mutated strain of the flu viruses. Flu vaccines are updated every year to protect you from newer versions of the flu.
Does the flu vaccine work right away?
It takes two weeks for the flu vaccine to become effective. Avoid interacting with people showing symptoms similar to the common cold for 10 days to two weeks after your flu shot. You’re prone to catching it during this time.
How long does a flu shot vaccine last?
The flu shot protects you for at least six months. Although, getting vaccinated for influenza any more than once a year is not recommended.
Can you still get the flu after a flu shot?
The flu shot equips your immune system with vital antibodies that your body needs to fight the flu. The chances of getting the flu after the flu shot are slim. Even if you do get it, your body has what it needs to overcome it.
Do flu shots really work?
Recent studies show flu vaccine can reduce the risk of flu illness by between 40% & 60% among the overall population during seasons when most circulating flu viruses are well-matched to the flu vaccine viruses. There are additional ways of reducing your risk of getting the flu after you have had the shot. Standard hygiene practices like washing your hands with soap for 20 seconds, avoiding contact with people showing signs of illness, & refraining from touching heavily-used surfaces are highly recommended. Following a diet rich in vegetables will also ensure your immune system is at its peak at all times of the year.
Is the flu booster shot necessary?
While health authorities highly recommend the flu booster shot, it is not mandatory. Similar to covid-19, influenza was once the cause of a pandemic that severely affected the lives & families of people that had it. The discovery of the vaccine was a scientific triumph & medical milestone. Modern-day resources & research allow medical professionals to prevent influenza by updating the formula every year, as the virus mutates. Safeguard your & your family’s health by making the responsible decision for your personal & public good by getting the flu vaccine.
When is Flu Season in Dubai?
Flu season in the Dubai typically begins in October and continues through April. It’s important to take precautions during this time to stay healthy.
When is the best time to get flu shot?
The best time to get a flu shot is before the start of flu season, ideally in early fall, around September or October. This helps your body build immunity before the virus starts spreading widely.
How long does flu vaccine last?
The flu vaccine’s protection typically lasts for about six months. It’s recommended to get a flu shot every year to ensure continued immunity against the virus.
Why is flu vaccine so expensive?
The cost of the flu vaccine can be influenced by various factors, including production, distribution, and administration costs. Additionally, research and development for new vaccine formulations contribute to the overall price