The importance of influenza vaccinations this flu season

As Australia comes into winter, experts are warning that this years’ flu season could be one of the worst we have seen. In this article we are going to look at the influenza virus and the importance of getting the flu vaccine.

Let’s start by understanding more about the influenza virus.

Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It is most commonly spread through coughing and sneezing, and can also be spread by contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

The influenza virus can cause severe illness and sometimes even death, particularly in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Each year influenza causes significant morbidity and mortality around the world.

In Australia, influenza activity typically occurs from May to September, with peak activity usually occurring in August or September. However, influenza can occur throughout the year.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

During influenza season, it is recommended that all people aged six months and over should receive the flu vaccine. This is because even healthy people can become seriously ill from influenza.

Influenza vaccinations are important for everyone, but they are especially important for people who are at high risk of developing severe influenza illness. These people include:

– pregnant women

– young children

– the elderly

– people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.

The influenza vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from influenza. It is safe and effective, and it doesn’t cause the flu.

How can you tell the difference between influenza and COVID-19?

The influenza vaccine will not protect you from COVID-19. However, it is still important to get the influenza vaccine because influenza and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses that can cause severe illness and death.

There are some key differences between influenza and COVID-19 that can help you tell them apart:

– Influenza typically causes a sudden onset of fever, while COVID-19 usually causes a gradual onset of fever.

– Influenza typically causes muscle aches and pains, while COVID-19 does not.

– Influenza typically causes a cough, while COVID-19 can cause either a dry cough or a wet cough.

If you are unsure whether you have influenza or COVID-19, you should conduct a Rapid Antigen Test and isolate until you have a negative result.

So there you have it, some important information about influenza and the importance of influenza vaccinations. 

Remember, influenza vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself and your family from influenza. 

If you have any questions, or would like to book your flu vaccination, please call us on 07 5531 3205 or book online.