Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Preventing Influenza - When should i get a Flu Shot?

Preventing Influenza :
The best strategy for avoiding the flu is getting a flu shot each year.  The vaccine should be taken each year because as flu viruses constantly mutate and the flu shot is updated annually to include the most current flu strains. Since the immune system needs time to respond to the antibodies in the vaccine, the shot should be given six to eight weeks before flu season begins.
While the vaccine usually protects most people from the flu, sometimes a person who receives the vaccine can get the flu, but it is frequently milder than without the vaccine.  Further, getting a flu shot will not protect you from other viruses that feel like the flu.  It prevents illness from types A and B influenza; however, it does not protect from the mild respiratory illness of type C, which is not thought to cause epidemics.  Influenza type A viruses are divided into subtypes based on two proteins on the surface of the virus.  These proteins are called hem agglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N).  Influenza B virus is not divided into subtypes.  The A viruses and the B virus are included in each year’s influenza vaccine.
In addition to the vaccination, getting proper sleep, eating a healthy diet and regular exercise can boost one’s immune system and help ward off influenza.  Avoiding infected people also reduces the risk of catching the flu bug, as does washing your hands after touching surfaces in public places; telephones, door handles, toilets, etc.
Finally, if you have the flu…wash your hands, as germs spread even when touching your own body; watery eyes, coughing mouth, running or sneezing nose.  Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze.  Stay home and keep your distance from others.  Rest and relax.  You can hurry the healing process by taking care of yourself!

When should I get a flu shot?:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the flu shot every year, between September and mid-November, before the flu season hits (usually December to April). The flu shot takes one to two weeks to become effective.
Although there are many new medications designed to treat flu symptoms and even shorten the duration of the illness, the flu vaccine still offers the best protection against the flu.

No comments:

Post a Comment