Key Facts & Risks About Flu Vaccine.
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August 25, 2020
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Flu vaccine
Flu, also called influenza, is a viral respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus. Influenza viruses are of two types – type A and type B. In most people, the flu is mild, but in children, the elderly and people with other diseases, it could be severe and life-threatening.
Flu vaccines are the best and essential way to protect from flu disease. The flu vaccine can help to prevent flu, hospitalization and death from influenza. The vaccine is also beneficial to reduce the risk of severe flu illness.
Currently, flu vaccine helps to protect against four types of flu viruses. As the viruses modify themselves, the vaccine is also changed. The flu vaccine is given once every year, especially to people who are at risk.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
Following are at higher risk of severe flu or death from flu; thus, should be vaccinated annually:
- Children
- Pregnant women
- People with long-term health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease
- People aged more than 65 years
The flu vaccine is not given to children under six months of age and people who are allergic to the flu vaccine. People with egg allergy have to discuss the allergy with their doctors before taking the vaccine as they need supervision during vaccine administration.
Flu vaccines are generally very safe. Millions of people have been safely vaccinated over the past five decades, and there has been extensive research that has shown the flu vaccine to be safe. There could be a mild reaction to the flu vaccine. However, the side-effects are mild, and they go away. Some of the side-effects of flu vaccine are:
- Soreness, redness, and/or swelling from the shot
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Muscle aches
A Flu shot is the best shot against seasonal influenza. Those who are at risk should receive the vaccine every year.
Disclaimer: Don't follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor.
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