Getting a flu shot protects both yourself and your community. Here a five reasons why you should be making sure you’re getting a flu shot every year.
Getting a flu shot won’t make you sick, but the flu will
First things first, worrying about getting sick from the flu shot isn’t something you need to be doing – it’s not possible to get the flu from the flu shot. However, if you get the flu you might find yourself down and out for up to two weeks. There are also a few types of flu vaccines, including the afluria quad flu vaccine. Some have no live virus and some have a very small, not harmful dosage. If you do get a vaccine like the afluria quad flu vaccine, you may experience some common side effects and if concerned you can contact your doctor and let them know. It’s also important to note that it can take two weeks for the flu shot to develop your immunity so you will still need to be reasonably careful for that period.
The flu is more dangerous than you think
Perhaps it’s because we’re a little too used to the idea of the flu, but many people don’t take the common illness seriously. According to Health.vic , an average of 2,800 Australians die from influenza and complications like pneumonia annually. For older people or those with underlying conditions, the flu is a serious illness. Plus, staying healthy isn’t just about protecting yourself. If you’re vaccinated, you also reduce the risk of passing it on to other vulnerable people.
If you’re afraid of needles you can always opt for the nasal spray
As we mentioned above the flu shot has several variations, but what you might not realise is that that includes a nasal spray option instead of an injection. No type of flu shot is generally recommended over the others, however in 2017 to 2018 nasal sprays were considered less effective. However, the vaccines have now been improved and were fine to come back into use during the 2020.
Influenza is always evolving
The reason why you should get your flu shot every year is that the virus, unlike some others, is constantly mutating. This means that the vaccines are constantly being improved and developed to fight off new types of circulating strains. For those in high risk groups it is especially important to get your flu shot and protect yourself from possible har.
It might be free for you
For some people, the National Immunisation Program offers a free program of vaccines. This includes pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and older, any one aged 65 years and older, and anyone aged from six months and over with medical conditions that put them at risk. If you don’t fall into the free brackets, a flu vaccine should cost around $20 at your doctor’s office or local pharmacy.