The flu season is approaching, and the risk of catching the flu comes with it. With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, it is more important than ever to protect ourselves and others by getting vaccinated against the flu. Here, we’ll discuss why getting a flu vaccine in Melbourne is essential this year and answer some common questions about the flu vaccine.
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Why Is It Important To Get A Flu Vaccine In Melbourne?
First, getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the flu. In Melbourne, the flu season typically runs from May through October. By getting vaccinated, you reduce your chances of experiencing its unpleasant symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
Beyond protecting yourself, getting a flu vaccine helps protect those around you, particularly vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions. By reducing the spread of the flu, you help prevent a strain on the healthcare system and keep the communities healthy.
When Should You Get A Flu Vaccine In Melbourne?
It’s best to get a flu vaccine before the flu season begins so you have time to build immunity before the virus starts circulating. The Australian government typically releases its annual flu vaccination program around March or April, which outlines the flu vaccine recommendations and distribution arrangements for the year. It’s recommended that you get vaccinated by May or early June. However, it’s never too late to get vaccinated, and you can still benefit from getting vaccinated later in the season.
How Long Does The Flu Vaccine Last?
The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the flu for one flu season, which lasts about three to six months. However, the vaccine’s effectiveness can decline, particularly in older adults or people with weakened immune systems. This means that getting a flu vaccine every season is recommended to ensure ongoing protection against the flu.
In some cases, a second dose of the flu vaccine may be recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as cancer or HIV, or for people who have not previously responded well to the vaccine. Children under nine years and pregnant women get a second dose of the vaccine. Your doctor or healthcare provider will advise whether a second dose is recommended.
Is The Flu Vaccine Safe?
Yes, the flu vaccine is safe and has been extensively tested and monitored for safety. Like all vaccines, it can cause mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, but these usually go away within a few days. Serious side effects are rare.
Note that the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu because it contains inactive or dead viruses that cannot cause the flu. However, it’s still possible to catch the flu even after getting vaccinated, especially if you caught it before the shot. But if you catch the flu after vaccination, your symptoms will be milder than without the vaccine.
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