Why should I have influenza (flu) vaccination?

http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/flu-jab-protects-you-and-others-too?xtor=CS3-17

[Differences between common cold and influenza (flu)]

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The common cold, like influenza, is also easily spread. Both have very similar symptoms but the common cold is generally a milder disease compared to influenza.

A person with the common cold may sneeze, and have a runny nose, sore throat and mild fever.

In contrast, the flu has the potential to be more serious. It can cause severe body ache, extreme lethargy and very high fever with chills. It can also lead to major health complications such as pneumonia or even death.

That is why people who are not well should stay home and not go to work or head to the cinema or other crowded places.

[Question 1]: Why should we get a flu vaccination?

#Answer# ==> A The flu vaccine is designed to protect against flu viruses circulating in the environment.

Those who are vaccinated are less likely to get sick or hospitalised due to an episode of flu. Vaccination protects you from something that can become worse.

More importantly, you are not just protecting yourself but also the people around you.

If more people are vaccinated against influenza, it becomes harder for a sick person to spread the flu, as the people around him would be protected by the vaccine.

This concept of getting members of the public to be vaccinated to the extent that the spread of influenza can be contained is called "herd immunity".

All of us should play our part by ensuring that we get our yearly flu shots.

[Question 2] Why do I have to get a flu vaccination every year?

#Answer#==>

The composition of the vaccine changes in response to the change in the viruses in circulation.

Flu viruses are constantly evolving, which means that last year's vaccine may not protect you against viruses that are circulating this year.

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If more people are vaccinated against influenza, it becomes harder for a sick person to spread the flu, as the people around him would be protected by the vaccine.

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