At Southern Medical Centre, we’re passionate about educating communities throughout NSW’s Southern Highlands, including Moss Vale, Bundanoon, Bowral, and Mittagong – about the importance of vaccines.
The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious health complications, including hospitalisation and even death. While anyone can get the flu, certain groups are at higher risk, such as:
- Young children: Their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to severe illness.
- Older adults: As we age, our immune systems weaken, making it harder to fight off infections.
- Pregnant women: Pregnancy can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
- People with chronic health conditions: Conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease can make the flu more severe.
How Does the Flu Shot Work?
The flu shot works by triggering your body’s immune system to produce antibodies that fight off the virus. It’s important to note that the flu shot does not contain a live virus, so it cannot cause the flu.
Common Myths About the Flu Shot
Despite its effectiveness, there are still some common myths about the flu shot. Here are a few:
- Myth: The vaccine can give you the flu.
- Fact: It can’t. The formula contains either inactivated flu viruses or a manufactured protein that mimics the virus, not the live strain.
- Myth: It’s only meant for older adults.
- Fact: Vaccination is recommended for everyone six months of age and older.
- Myth: If you get vaccinated, you won’t get sick at all.
- Fact: While highly effective, it’s not a 100% guarantee. However, it can greatly reduce symptom severity and the risk of complications.
Protecting Your Community
By getting a flu shot, you’re not only protecting yourself but also your community. When more people are vaccinated, it helps to reduce the spread of the virus, especially among vulnerable populations.
At Southern Medical Centre, we’re committed to providing high-quality healthcare to the Southern Highlands community. We encourage everyone to get their annual flu shot to stay healthy and well-protected.