Flu Vaccinations
Flu Vaccinations
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Having the flu affects the respiratory tract, symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body ache and headaches. Getting an annual flu vaccination protects you against influenza.
Get your flu vaccination at your nearest DR+ Medical & Paincare Clinic.
Benefits of Flu Vaccination
Protection from Severe Illness
The primary benefit of the flu vaccine is that it significantly reduces the risk of contracting influenza. For those who might still get the flu after vaccination, the illness is often milder than it would have been without the vaccine.
Reduction in Hospitalisations and Deaths
- Studies have shown that flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu-associated hospitalisations in both adults and children. Those with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, and diabetes, as they are at a higher risk of flu-related complications.
- Furthermore, among the elderly population and individuals with certain chronic health conditions, the vaccine reduces the risk of flu-related deaths.
Protection for Vulnerable Populations
- Certain groups, including the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions, are at an increased risk of severe flu complications. Vaccination offers these groups a shield against the illness.
- For pregnant women, the flu vaccine not only protects them but also their newborns for several months after birth.
Prevention of Chronic Conditions Worsening
For individuals with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes, the flu can exacerbate their condition, leading to severe complications. Vaccination can prevent these complications and the worsening of chronic conditions.
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Side Effects and Safety of Flu Vaccinations
Common Side Effects
Injection Site Reactions: These are the most common side effects and can include soreness, redness, swelling, or warmth at the injection site. These reactions typically resolve within a day or two.
Mild Systemic Reactions: Some individuals may experience fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, or chills. These symptoms are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days.
Who Should Not Get the Vaccine
It is important to get vaccinated against the flu, especially for individuals who are vulnerable such as older people, young children and those with pre-existing medical conditions who are more likely to develop complications if they are down with the flu.
Flu vaccination is recommended for the following groups of people:
- Elderly aged 65 years or older
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions (diabetes, heart, lung, liver and kidney conditions)
What Are The Subsidies For Flu Vaccination?
Government subsidy is available for Pioneer Generation (PG), Merdeka Generation (MG) and Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) Green, CHAS Blue or Orange cardholders. Please check your eligibility here.
With the Healthier SG (HSG) programme, patients who meet the eligibility criteria will have their flu vaccination fully subsidised at their enrolled HSG clinic.
You will be asked a series of pre-vaccination questions to ensure it is safe for you to receive the flu vaccine i.e. medical history, any allergies or previous reactions to vaccines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the flu vaccine to become effective after administration?
It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop antibodies and provide protection against the flu.
Can I get the flu vaccine if I'm currently sick with another illness?
If you have a mild illness, it’s generally safe to get the flu vaccine. However, if you have a moderate to severe illness, especially with a fever, it’s advisable to wait until you recover before getting vaccinated.
I got vaccinated last year. Do I need to get vaccinated again this year?
Yes. The flu virus strains can change from year to year, and the immunity from the vaccine diminishes over time. It’s recommended to get vaccinated every flu season for optimal protection.
Is it possible to get the flu even after getting vaccinated?
While the flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk of getting the flu, it’s not 100% effective. It’s still possible, though less likely, to contract the flu after vaccination.
Are there any dietary or lifestyle recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of the flu vaccine?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can support your immune system. However, there’s no specific dietary or lifestyle change that’s proven to enhance the vaccine’s effectiveness.
Can I get the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?
In most cases, it’s safe to receive the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines. Consult with our doctors to determine the best vaccination schedule for you.
How are the flu strains for the annual vaccine selected?
The World Health Organization (WHO) monitors flu virus samples from around the world. Based on this data, they recommend which strains should be included in the annual vaccine to best match the circulating viruses.