Seasonal Flu Vaccination: Protect Yourself This Flu Season

This article highlights the importance of seasonal influenza vaccination, detailing the vaccine's composition, mechanism, administration schedule, and safety precautions. It emphasizes vaccination as the most effective way to prevent flu and its complications. The piece also discusses possible side effects and the proper method of vaccine administration, aiming to educate individuals on protecting themselves during flu season. Regular vaccination is crucial, especially for vulnerable groups, to maintain community health and prevent outbreaks.

Seasonal Flu Vaccination

Overview
Influenza, caused by the flu virus, is a contagious disease that antibiotics cannot treat. Management mainly involves symptom relief, such as fever reducers and pain relievers. Antiviral drugs, if taken within 48 hours of exposure, can shorten illness duration. Rest and hydration are vital in recovery. Without proper care, flu complications like pneumonia can be deadly. Therefore, receiving the flu vaccine is crucial for prevention.

The main vaccine used is the Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine (split virion, inactivated), marketed as Fluarix Tetra.
Vaccine Composition
This immunization includes antigens from four influenza 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, aimed at preventing infection caused by these viruses.

How It Works
This vaccine triggers the immune system to produce antibodies against the hemagglutinin proteins of the four influenza strains in the vaccine, thereby providing active immunity and neutralizing the viruses.

Administration Schedule
The flu shot is recommended once annually, ideally before the flu season peaks in October.

Who Should Get It
Recommended for individuals aged 3 years and older. Children aged 3-9 with no previous vaccination should receive a second dose after four weeks.

Precautions

Review patient’s vaccination history and previous adverse reactions.

Ensure medical support is readily available for any allergic reactions.

Delay vaccination during acute febrile illnesses.

Administer only via intramuscular injection—avoid intravenous or subcutaneous routes.

Use with caution in individuals with bleeding disorders or pregnancy, only if benefits outweigh risks.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include soreness, fatigue, muscle pain, and mild fever. Less frequently, some may experience dizziness, rash, or swelling at the injection site.

How It Is Given
The vaccine is injected into the deltoid muscle of the shoulder or the front thigh. It is essential to inject it intramuscularly to avoid serious allergic reactions. A single 0.5 ml dose is standard during each appointment.

Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult healthcare providers before vaccination or treatment decisions.