Fight off the winter sniffles
Get vaccinated against the flu before the onset of winter.
Coughs, sniffles and sore throats are the most dreaded soundtrack of winter but you can change this gloomy tune with a single visit to your local pharmacy.
The leaves are already changing colour which means winter is following in its wake.
Boost your immunity, get vaccinated and arm yourself against flu.
“The best time to get your flu vaccination is between mid-March and mid-April,” said Ethney Brits, administrative assistant at Farrar Care Pharmacy, Farrarmere.
“Everyone can benefit from being vaccinated annually, however it is advised that elderly persons, asthma sufferers and children are immunised without dely.”
Brits further explained that the flu vaccine does not prevent flu in its entirety but allows the body to build up immunity to better ward off infections, lessening its severity.
“By strengthening the body’s resistance, flu symptoms will be milder while protecting against secondary infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia,” she said.
“Yearly vaccinations offer better protection.”
Tips before getting the shot:
• Do not get vaccinated if you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms.
It is advisable to get vaccinated five to 10 days after the symptoms have subsided or prescribed medical treatment has concluded.
• First time patients may experience flu-like symptoms shortly after the vaccine has been administered however, side effects will become less following future inoculations.
• Half doses of the flu vaccine may be administered to children from the age of nine months.
• Supplement your health by taking immune boosters daily.
Look out for multi-vitamins containing no more than 1000mg of vitamin C.
This is the recommended dosage to maintain a healthy immune system, as anything more is merely discarded by the body.
• Flu vaccines are covered by most medical aids and are not paid from the patient’s day-to-day savings.
• Don’t let fear stand in the way of good health.
The flu vaccine is administered intramuscularly, usually in the upper arm. A fine-gauge needle is used which means it is mostly painless.
“Before you know it, it is over and your body is ready to protect itself against pesky winter viruses,” said Brits.
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