As we head into peak winter, I am sure many of us are thankful for the unexpected good spell of weather and double digit highs for the last few weeks in Toronto. It has been a great respite. But we are making headway into the
peak flu season so it is time to arm ourselves and beat the flu blues. Getting flu shots for you and your family is an important part of preparing for the cold season.
Usually the onset of seasonal flu activity is from October in
Ontario. It is known to stretch till the month of May but is at its peak in the month of December. According to statistics the number of people who succumb to flu every year in Canada ranges from 12,000 to 16,000 making it one of the most prevalent ailments during this season.
Flu is more common in toddlers and older adults although every one of us is equally susceptible. Recovery time is about a fortnight but in some cases such as children under 6 years of age, pregnant women or those with pre-existing health problems there is a greater risk of complications, such as pneumonia.
Flu is the common name for
Influenza which is caused by a virus and attacks our respiratory system. It spreads through close or direct contact. Breath released during talking, coughing, or sneezing is another medium for spreading the germs. Flu germs can be active on surfaces for up to 8 hours. The symptoms of the flu and the common cold are quite similar which might lead to a few misconceptions. But, Flu takes a severe toll on our immune system and the symptoms are much more acute as compared to common cold. The most common symptoms include very high fever, severe body and muscle pains, watery eyes, nose block, head ache, chills, fatigue and throat pain. I know it sounds pretty bleak but those who have experienced it are bound to agree that getting a shot is a lot better than living through a bout of flu.
The flu virus changes its form every season. Each year, different strains of the virus become active and prevalent. The WHO after careful analysis and research determines the combination of each year’s vaccine. Although there has been a debate that if taken year after year the flu shot weakens your body’s natural immunity it is imperative to take the flu shot every year to make sure you are protected against the strains most likely to spread this flu season.
Ideally the
flu vaccines are made to protect against three different strains (trivalent) but vaccines made to protect against four different strains (quadrivalent) are also available. Quadrivalent vaccines have a broader range and are more commonly recommended. The Ontario Ministry of Health has also introduced nasal spray (quadrivalent) for those who do not want to take a shot especially kids. Nasal sprays are given to kids 2 years and older and usually restricted up to 17 years. Consult your Physician or Paediatrician on what would work best for you and your family.
The side effects of the flu vaccine are mild and subside gradually. It includes redness or a mild rash at the site of injection, mild fever and nausea.
Allergic reactions are very rare and may include breathlessness and swelling in the throat. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older. The side effects for the nasal spray include a stuffy nose, loss of appetite and mild fever for a day or two.
As flu is a viral infection, antibiotics are not effective to combat it. Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections. Anti-viral medications are known to be used to treat the flu in the elderly but they work only when administered within 48 hours of the onset of flu.
You should not take the flu shot if:
- you are under 6 months or younger
- you had an allergic or anaphylactic reaction when you the shot last time
- you have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome
- children or adults who are suffering from an existing infection or any other ailment should wait till their condition is stabilized
For regions in the GTA where you can get a flu shot visit the homepage of Ontario Ministry of Health or use
this link. The best place to get a flu shot is from your Family Physician. For newcomers to Ontario who are yet to register with a physician there are numerous walk in clinics who give the shot. You could also check with your local pharmacy or your kids’ school for the flu shot schedule.
Once you take the shot, it takes about a fortnight for your body to produce the antibodies. They provide adequate protection against the infection. Meanwhile there are a few things you can do to ensure your safety. Wash your hands frequently or use disinfectant wipes. Maintain a safe distance while talking to people. Teach your children to cover their mouth and nose while sneezing.
Stay healthy this flu season. Get your flu shot today. Remember forewarned is forearmed.
