And is this flu so scary to give an extra injection? We tend to perceive it as just a particularly nasty cold. This is not entirely true: influenza is an acute viral disease. The influenza virus is toxic to capillaries, it can suppress the immune system, and disrupt the natural defenses of tissues, making them easy prey for bacteria. Complications can include inflammation of the lungs, airways, meninges, heart, liver and kidney damage. According to our HR department, 10 percent of our company’s employees have already decided that they do not need this and have signed up for the vaccination.
What?
Every year, a new flu vaccine is created – based on the collected data on the most dangerous and most probable viruses for each region. Thus, in 2008-2009, Russia will have two types of virus A and one B.
The “bird” flu, which many are so afraid of, is not included in the distributed vaccine: the risk of an avian flu epidemic in Russia is assessed as low, therefore there is no need for mass vaccination. If desired, you can vaccinate from it separately.
But from the most likely forms of influenza this season, it is recommended to get vaccinated. Although vaccination is an unpleasant procedure, in 80 percent of people it does not pass without a trace: the next day the temperature rises to 37,5 degrees, reddening of the skin at the injection site, weakness occurs. This will take place in two to three days, but will protect against much more dangerous complications in case of illness.
Where?
During the “season” vaccination can be done at any medical center or clinic. In many enterprises and organizations, this is done at the expense of the company budget and during working hours. If your management is not yet eager to spend money on a vaccine and a call to nurses – allows you to calculate how beneficial such a step is.
When?
The optimal time is early October. The weather is still warm, we have already gone on vacation and did not have time to overwork, there is a month ahead for the immunity to be developed. The first burst of colds falls just in November-December, and by this time the body will be ready for defense.
Who?
For children and old people – do. If the immune system is still or is already weakened (in a child, an elderly person), doctors recommend getting vaccinated.
Pregnant – according to circumstances. On the one hand, vaccination is safer than illness, especially in the first and third trimesters. But if there is a threat of termination of pregnancy, serious chronic diseases, etc. – consult with your supervising gynecologist.
Allergy sufferers vaccination can not be done only in case of intolerance to chicken protein. It happens, but not often. It is even shown to everyone else: allergies are associated with a weakened immune system, and the fight against a “live” virus for such an organism is a very serious test.