By Christine Cheng, R.Ph. and Frederick Cheng, R.Ph.
Influenza (or flu) is a viral infection that presents as a combination of fever, headache, muscle aches, malaise, sore throat and/or coughing. It is highly contagious. Despite advancement in modern medicine, this condition is still prevalent in the colder seasons and there is no effective drug that will kill the flu bug. Influenza is especially dangerous in the elderly and people with chronic illnesses.
Getting the influenza vaccine is the most effective way to reduce the incidence and severity of influenza.
A vaccine is a small amount of the virus introduced purposely into the body so that the immune system produces specific antibodies against the viral antigens. The inactivated influenza vaccine is made of killed influenza viruses. Should a massive invasion of the same virus occur subsequently, the body will be equipped with the necessary antibodies that will neutralize the virus. Immunity from vaccination is short lasting, so yearly vaccination is recommended, particularly for the elderly and those at higher risk of complications from influenza infection. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) identifies following groups as high risk: people ≥65years of age, adults and children with chronic health conditions (cardiac or pulmonary disorders, diabetes mellitus, cancer and other immune-compromising conditions, renal disease, anemia, neurologic conditions), obesity (BMI≥40), pregnant women, Aboriginal peoples, residents of nursing homes, and children 6-59months of age.
Common side effects include injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, swelling). Systemic side effects include myalgia, malaise, headache, fever. All of these are self-limiting (usually resolving within about 48 hours). People who are concerned with the side effects of vaccination could take a dose of homeopathic Sulfur 30CH just before and just after the injection.
It is not possible to contract the flu from an inactivated influenza vaccine. If you happen to feel like you are fighting the flu shortly after getting immunized, it is likely that you were already harboring (incubating) a flu virus and the manifestation of symptoms is coinciding with the timing of your flu shot.
Copious hand-washing is key to minimizing the risk of contracting the flu. Good nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and adequate sleep will help maintain a healthy immune system that is ready to fight any infection.
Flu vaccines are now in stock. Drop by and one of our injection-certified pharmacists can answer any questions you have regarding the flu shot and administer the vaccine to you.
Articles, Q&A, blog posts and all materials submitted for publishing is the intellectual property of Cloverdale Pharmacy Ltd – reproduction in part or whole, in print or online, without written consent and permission is prohibited.
Articles, Q&A, blog posts and all materials submitted for publishing is the intellectual property of Cloverdale Pharmacy Ltd – reproduction in part or whole, in print or online, without written consent and permission is prohibited.
