Pandemic Response

Posts Tagged ‘flu jab’

As the colder weather draws in, you may be wondering if having the flu jab this year is worth it. Having a flu jab is still optional and some people are unsure about what the benefits of having it done actually are. Some feel that they need the extra protection as the cold winter approaches since the flu jab can protect you from viruses for six months.

Seasonal flu is very infectious and spreads quickly from person to person by coughing and sneezing. The jab, which is given to help protect you against a number of strains of the flu virus, is very effective and easy to have. Although anyone can have the flu jab, most don’t bother as they don’t see the need to go to the effort for the sake of protecting themselves against an illness they may not even catch.

Once you have it then it is advised that you continue to have the flu jab every year. This helps to build up your immune system and fight the virus when it appears in the winter months. This in turn helps to produce antibodies which protect the body from harboring any infection. Flu is a quickly developing virus, with a variety of strains. These change every single year, meaning it is important to have one of these annually.

The flu jab is over 80% effective. People who have had one will find that the risk of developing pneumonia and other dangerous illnesses is greatly reduced. Those in higher risk groups, such as the elderly, asthmatics or terminally ill will be automatically offered the flu jab. This is because their immune systems are significantly weaker than those who are more healthy.

You can get the flu jab very easily and for some it is completely free. For most it is just at a minimal cost. No matter what your reasons for having the flu jab, it is definitely worth having it.