Seasonal Influenza Vaccination: Protect Yourself from the Flu
This article explains the importance of seasonal flu vaccination, the vaccine's composition, how it works, administration guidelines, precautions, side effects, and benefits. It emphasizes the necessity of annual immunization to prevent influenza-related complications and protect public health. The content offers valuable insights for individuals aged 3 and above, highlighting the safety and effectiveness of the quadrivalent influenza vaccine in reducing the risk of flu infections.
Understanding the Seasonal Flu and Vaccination
Overview
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is caused by a viral infection. Unlike bacterial infections, antibiotics are ineffective against it. Treatment mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and fatigue. Antiviral medications are most effective if taken within the first 48 hours after exposure, helping to shorten illness duration.
priority should be on rest, hydration, and symptomatic relief. Proper management is crucial, especially for vulnerable groups, to prevent complications like pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Getting an annual flu shot is highly recommended to boost immunity.
Vaccine Details
The active ingredient is quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine, marketed as Fluarix Tetra.
Vaccine Composition
It targets four virus strains:
A/Michigan/45/2015 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus
A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 (H3N2)-like virus
B/Brisbane/60/2008-like virus
B/Phuket/3073/2013-like virus
Each 0.5 ml dose contains 15 micrograms of hemagglutinin from each strain, providing broad protection against circulating flu viruses.
In essence, this vaccination shields you from infection by the four targeted strains, significantly reducing the risk of flu illness.
How the Vaccine Works
It stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the hemagglutinin proteins on influenza viruses, effectively neutralizing them and preventing illness.
Administration Schedule
The flu shot is recommended annually, preferably before the start of the flu season in October.
Who Should Get Vaccinated
The vaccine is suitable for individuals aged 3 years and older. Children aged 3-9 with no prior vaccination should receive a second dose at least four weeks later.
Precautions
Review patient history regarding previous flu vaccinations and adverse reactions.
Ensure medical support is available for allergic reactions.
Delay vaccination if the individual has a severe fever or illness.
Avoid intravenous administration; the vaccine must be given intramuscularly.
Use caution in individuals with bleeding disorders, as intramuscular injections may cause bleeding.
Pregnant women should only receive the vaccine if clearly indicated, after evaluating risks and benefits.
Possible Side Effects
Common reactions include soreness at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, and mild fever. Rare side effects like dizziness, rash, or localized bleeding can occur but are infrequent.
How the Vaccine Is Given
It’s administered via an injection into the deltoid muscle of the shoulder or the thigh, depending on the person’s age and muscle mass. It is never given directly into a vein or under the skin to prevent serious allergic reactions.
Each dose is 0.5 ml, typically given once during the vaccination season.
