The Flu Vaccine: Everything You Need To Know
The flu vaccine is a great ally in preventing this common condition. As a result of constant environmental changes, colds are the order of the day, and with them body discomfort, postnasal drip and other bothersome symptoms. Going to a health center to receive the immunization dose may be the best option to avoid getting infected.
The flu is a respiratory infection caused by various viruses; usually it is exceeded within a few days. Although it can happen, it is very rare that this condition can lead to serious complications, which could even lead to death.
To avoid the discomfort of this disease and become multiplying agents of the virus, it is recommended to receive the vaccine annually. Let’s see what this preventive measure consists of.
How does it work?
The flu vaccine provides antibodies two weeks after application. These are responsible for fighting infection against viruses.
There are several types of vaccines; its application will depend on the age of the patient. There are special ones for people over 65 years of age and others that can be given to anyone over 6 months of age.
The vaccines come in two forms. One is the injection, which is the one that contains the dead flu viruses; in this way, antibodies are created to fight the infections caused by this disease. This presentation is the most sought after, since its safety and efficacy have been proven.
The other presentation is the nasal spray. This includes live but weakened influenza viruses; it is the most suitable for children and young people.
In either of the two presentations, it is recommended that they be placed just before the start of the season in which the proliferation of this disease increases. The goal is, of course, to reduce the risk of contagion.
The effectiveness of this vaccine in preventing the flu virus varies depending on the person to whom it is given. For example, it will be more effective in someone who maintains a healthy diet, high in vitamin C and who does not frequent places where there is a risk of infection.
What are the benefits of the flu vaccine?
There are many benefits to getting a flu shot each year. The first is that it is very easy to access ; just go to the nearest healthcare center to receive the corresponding dose.
Likewise, preventing the spread of this disease is beneficial not only for the person who takes this provision, but for all those who live in his house, attend the same workplace and the other places that he frequents every day.
In summary, we can highlight the following advantages of the flu vaccine:
- You can prevent the spread of the disease and its possible complications.
- Helps protect women during and after pregnancy, as well as the baby after birth.
- Helps people with chronic health conditions prevent the spread of the virus.
- Avoid the generation of outbreaks and their consequences for public health.
Does the flu vaccine have any contraindications?
The benefits are many more than the contraindications that this immunization brings. However, it is pertinent to take into account the following variables to avoid complications:
- The doctor who provides this vaccine must know the patient’s record to avoid any complications. For example, it should not be applied to those who present sensitivity to its components, just as its administration is not advisable in case of fever episodes.
- On the other hand, if the person is allergic to eggs, the vaccine cannot be given.
- Caution should be exercised in people who have had Guillain-Barré syndrome (SBG). The risk of developing this disease after the flu vaccine is low, but it is still recommended that you consult with your doctor about this.
- Pregnant women can be safely vaccinated, as it is not contraindicated. It is the best way to avoid the flu and infect the future baby.
Side effects
The flu vaccine is made up of killed viruses that are generally well tolerated. The most noticeable side effect is itching and swelling at the injection site. A slight headache, muscle pain, fever, nausea, and cough may also occur.
There are other effects, such as vomiting, blurred vision or eye inflammation, malaise, chills, fatigue, sweating, and agitation. Serious reactions, such as neurological ones, appear with a really low frequency; the same applies to cardiovascular diseases, such as pericarditis and vasculitis.
The goal of the flu vaccine to keep this disease at bay and avoid any type of complication is achieved in most cases. Day by day, improvements are made to this vaccine so that the immunization it provides is more efficient.
Undoubtedly, its benefits take for granted that we should not hesitate to wear it annually, as well as the members of our family. It is a tangent example that prevention is always better than correcting.
