Flu vaccinations, commonly known as flu shots, are a critical tool in the fight against influenza, a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Here's why getting your flu shot is essential:
How Flu Vaccinations Work
Flu vaccines work by introducing inactivated or weakened influenza viruses into the body, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies provide protection against infection by the flu viruses contained in the vaccine. The vaccine is updated annually to match the most common strains predicted for the upcoming flu season.
Benefits of Flu Vaccinations
Reduces Risk of Flu Illness: The primary benefit of flu vaccination is reducing your risk of contracting the flu. Even when the vaccine does not completely prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness.
Prevents Severe Complications: Flu can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. Vaccination helps protect these groups from serious outcomes such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death.
Protects the Community: Flu vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the spread of the virus within the community. This is particularly important for protecting individuals who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants under six months old and those with certain medical conditions.
Reduces Healthcare Burden: By preventing flu-related illnesses and complications, flu vaccinations help decrease the overall burden on healthcare systems, especially during peak flu seasons. This is crucial for maintaining the capacity to treat other illnesses and emergencies.
When and Where to Get Vaccinated
Anybody can be susceptible to the flu throughout the year, but the peak seasons where people catch the influenza virus are typically from April to July, and November to January. Flu vaccines are widely available at most clinics.
Subsidies and Use of Medisave for Vaccination
Flu vaccination is highly subsidised at CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics for all Singaporeans who are in the high risk groups.
Children 6 - 59 months and any child who is in the high-risk groups may get an annual flu shot at no cost
Singaporean seniors age 65 and above and adults who are in the high-risk groups can get an annual flu shot at subsidised rates at CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics. (Refer to the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule and National Adult Immunisation Schedule.)
Additionally, MediSave may be used up to $500/$700 per year for Influenza vaccinations for persons with a higher risk of developing influenza-related complications at both CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics.
Myths and Misconceptions
Several myths and misconceptions surround flu vaccinations, such as the belief that the flu shot can cause the flu. This is not true; the vaccine contains inactivated or weakened viruses that cannot cause illness. Side effects are generally mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever.
Conclusion
Flu vaccinations are a safe and effective way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from influenza. By getting vaccinated annually, you help reduce the spread of the flu, prevent severe health complications, and contribute to a healthier society.
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