Due to the fluctuating weather conditions, there has been an increase in the outbreak of influenza, which is caused by the Influenza virus dispersed in the air. When our immune system weakens and we are exposed to the virus, it can cause us to get the flu. The best way to prevent the flu is… getting the influenza vaccine.
Influenza vaccine… must be administered every year!
Because the influenza virus constantly changes its strains, the vaccine production each year must also change the strains according to the virus!! to cover the virus strains that cause the disease. After vaccination, the body will develop immunity for about 1 year. Therefore, to prevent the dangers of influenza, we should get the influenza vaccine regularly every year!!
Who “should” get the influenza vaccine?
- Patients with 7 chronic diseases including diabetes, stroke, kidney failure, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, and cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
- Pregnant women, 4 months of pregnancy or more
- Individuals aged 65 years and older
- Young children aged 6 months to 2 years
- People with brain disabilities who cannot take care of themselves
- Patients with thalassemia
- People with immunodeficiency and HIV-infected individuals
Especially those who already have health problems should receive the influenza vaccine continuously every year.
Groups of people who “should not” get the influenza vaccine
- Infants younger than 6 months
- People with a severe allergy history to chicken or eggs, as this vaccine is produced from chicken eggs
- Those who have had severe allergic reactions after receiving the influenza vaccine
- People with fever or acute illness
- Patients with uncontrolled chronic diseases should postpone vaccination
