Understanding Influenza: Causes, Prevention, and Vaccination
This article covers influenza, its causes, symptoms, the importance of vaccination, and details about the quadrivalent flu vaccine. It emphasizes prevention and proper vaccine administration, highlighting the significance of timely immunization to avoid complications like pneumonia. Suitable for individuals aged 3 and above, the article encourages yearly vaccination during flu season to maintain health and safety. It also discusses potential side effects and precautions to ensure safe vaccination practices and effective protection against the viruses responsible for the flu.
Understanding Influenza: Causes, Prevention, and Vaccination
Overview
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is caused by a viral infection. Unlike bacterial illnesses, antibiotics are ineffective against the flu. Treatment primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and fatigue. Antiviral drugs can reduce the duration if taken within the first 48 hours after exposure. Rest and proper hydration are vital components of managing the illness. Without adequate care or in individuals with weakened immunity, influenza may lead to serious complications like pneumonia. Vaccination remains the most effective prevention method.
Vaccine Details
The flu vaccine, known as the Quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (brand: Fluarix Tetra), helps guard against four virus strains. It contains antigens from:
A/Michigan/45/2015 (H1N1)pdm09-like strain
A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 (H3N2)-like strain
B/Brisbane/60/2008-like strain
B/Phuket/3073/2013-like strain
Each 0.5 ml dose includes 15 micrograms of haemagglutinin per strain. This vaccine helps prevent illness caused by these four viruses.
How It Works
The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus strains. These antibodies neutralize the influenza viruses, providing active immunity.
Administration Schedule
The influenza vaccine is recommended once annually during flu season, typically starting in October.
Who Should Receive It
It's suitable for individuals aged 3 years and older. Children aged 3 to 9 without prior vaccination should get revaccinated after four weeks.
Precautions
Review medical history, especially previous vaccinations and adverse reactions.
Ensure medical support is available in case of allergic reactions.
Delay vaccination during active high fever or severe illness.
Avoid intravenous administration; only intramuscular injection is recommended.
Use caution in patients with bleeding disorders to prevent bleeding at the injection site.
Pregnant women should only be vaccinated if benefits outweigh risks.
Potential Side Effects
Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and mild fever. Less common reactions may involve dizziness, rash, or swelling. Serious adverse effects are rare.
How It’s Given
The vaccine is injected into the deltoid muscle or thigh using a 0.5 ml dose. It is essential to avoid giving it intravenously or subcutaneously to prevent severe reactions.
