The sore throat, runny nose and cough! Feeling like this, is due to the common cold, especially if the onset is gradual and the symptoms quite mild. But with winter approaching, is flu something we really need to worry about?
While more than 100 different viruses can cause a cold, influenza is caused by one of four viruses, namely types A, B, C and D, with the circulation of Influenza A and B causing seasonal outbreaks of the disease?
Flu is characterised by an abrupt onset which could include chills, fever, headache, fatigue, weakness along with chest discomfort and coughing, as well as sometimes a blocked or runny nose and sore throat.
An increased incidence of flu is generally associated with autumn and winter. This is because the flu virus lives longer indoors and thrives in less humid conditions. The colder months also sees people spend more time indoors and in closer contact with others, which leads to more inhalation of the virus, or contracting it through the eyes, nose or mouth.
Most people who get flu will recover in a time period of between a few days and two weeks. The danger of flu is that some people may develop complications such as pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.
The highest rates of hospitalisation being in those 65 years and older, those with HIV and children less than five years of age. Pregnant women are also at an increased risk of hospitalisation and death from flu infections. Those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, lung disease, tuberculosis and heart disease are also at increased risk of being hospitalised as a result of flu.
An annual flu vaccination is recommended especially for those more at risk of flu complications, including pregnant women, children aged 6 months to 5 years of age, people over the age of 65, people with chronic medical conditions and health workers.
Even for those people who are not at an increased risk of complications, an annual flu vaccination can prevent severe illness, reduce time off work or school, and can help limit the spread of flu to loved ones and colleagues .
The flu vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce its own antibodies against the disease. Contrary to what some people may believe, none of the ingredients in the vaccine can cause actual flu?
Although the timing of the flu season varies from year to year in South Africa, it is generally most severe during the winter months of May to August, but can start as early as April or as late as July, with the average duration of the flu season lasting 19 weeks.
The best time to get your flu vaccine is before the season starts, ideally as early as March, but getting it later will protect you during the remainder of the season?
Flu vaccinations are currently available at most healthcare providers, pharmacies and clinics in South Africa.
One option available includes an innovative smart syringe which is designed for precise dosing and injection site comfort, especially helpful when administering to children or those who may be a little nervous of the needle.
