NEWS
Why Do You Need An Influenza (Flu) Vaccine Every Year?
Written By
Admin • 01 Agustus 2024
Influenza vaccination is one of the most important steps to reduce the risk of contracting the flu. By receiving the vaccine, the body builds protection against the virus, helping to prevent severe flu-related complications.
It is important to note that influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It is caused by the influenza virus, which spreads through droplets expelled by infected individuals when they cough, sneeze, or talk. Once exposed, most people develop symptoms within 1–4 days.
Although flu symptoms may resolve on their own in healthy individuals by boosting immunity, the illness can lead to serious complications in certain high-risk groups—such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses. Therefore, getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent infection and reduce the risk of severe flu symptoms.
What to Know Before Getting an Influenza Vaccine
If you’ve never received the flu vaccine before, here are several important things to understand:
1. The flu vaccine does not cause flu
The vaccine contains inactivated (killed) virus, meaning it cannot infect the body or cause illness.
2. Vaccination helps protect those around you
People who are vaccinated have stronger protection against the flu. The more people are vaccinated, the harder it is for the virus to spread—helping to create herd immunity that also protects those who cannot be vaccinated.
3. The flu vaccine prevents complications in individuals with chronic conditions
Those with chronic medical issues such as heart disease, diabetes, or kidney failure are strongly advised to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of flu-related complications that could worsen their existing health conditions.
4. The flu vaccine should be given annually
The influenza virus mutates rapidly, and researchers continuously update the vaccine to target the most prevalent strains each year. Additionally, antibodies generated by the vaccine may wane over time, so annual vaccination is necessary to maintain optimal protection.
5. The vaccine takes time to work
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop and provide full protection. Therefore, if you're planning international travel, it's recommended to get vaccinated well in advance of your departure.
For optimal protection, get vaccinated against influenza with your family at Tzu Chi Hospital, where you can receive a quadrivalent flu vaccine covering four strains of the virus. Vaccination is recommended annually for everyone aged 6 months and older. Contact our call center for fast and easy registration.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Hardy Indradi, Sp.PD.
