Many individuals use the time period flu to discuss with any sickness attributable to a virus, such because the widespread chilly or abdomen flu, and this may result in confusion. Nonetheless, the influenza virus causes a respiratory sickness that tends to be extra extreme than these viruses and is extra more likely to trigger problems. So, lets focus on some considerations which can be widespread, data at present accessible and the suggestions that Well being Canada offers concerning the flu vaccine.
“Influenza is just not a severe sickness. I’ll be okay if I get the flu.”
In years when influenza is widespread in Canada, individuals might die from influenza or its problems, equivalent to pneumonia. Influenza can result in severe sickness in seniors 65 years and older and in different high-risk teams. Getting a flu shot protects not solely you, but additionally helps to restrict the unfold of flu to individuals round you. You may need gentle signs that really feel like a chilly however somebody extra weak might undergo severe penalties. Older adults, younger youngsters, pregnant girls at any stage of being pregnant, and people with immune system issues or different medical circumstances can change into very in poor health from the flu. While you get the flu shot it helps to guard them as properly.
“I’ve by no means had influenza, so I don’t have to get a Flu shot.”
Signs of influenza can range from gentle to extreme. Most individuals seemingly get sick with influenza a number of instances throughout their lives. The influenza virus is at all times evolving so this makes it necessary to get the up to date vaccine every year. The vaccine is designed to guard you towards essentially the most dangerous strains that brought on pandemics prior to now equivalent to H1N1 or H2N2. For those who do get the flu, the signs can be much less extreme than if you weren’t vaccinated in any respect.
“I acquired the flu after my flu shot”
Flu photographs can’t trigger influenza sickness. Most flu photographs include inactivated or killed influenza viruses. An exception is the nasal spray flu vaccine which accommodates reside weakened strains of influenza, but it surely can’t trigger influenza an infection both. Nonetheless, in the course of the fall and winter there are numerous several types of viruses that may trigger influenza-like signs like colds, COVID-19 and RSV. No vaccines can guarantee 100% safety from catching a virus, they usually take about 2 weeks to achieve their full effectiveness. For those who do get influenza, the vaccine is designed to lower how unhealthy the signs are and the danger of extreme sickness, problems, hospitalization, and even dying.
“Getting an influenza vaccine yearly weakens my immune system.”
Every year the influenza vaccines are up to date to attempt to match the strains of influenza circulating. While you get your annual flu shot it ensures you might be getting the very best safety towards the brand new strains. The flu shot doesn’t overwork your immune system, it trains your immune system to have the ability to assault the virus shortly when it enters your physique.
We hope you might have found new data, have resolved widespread considerations that many individuals have concerning the Flu virus and the vaccine and that helps you make the very best resolution for you and your family members. We are able to’t wait to welcome you to our pharmacy!