Let's learn more about the flu shot. There's nothing to be afraid of!

At some point in the year, everyone around us gets a cold, cough, and fever. You too must be familiar with this. The "flu" that spreads like this, that is, the flu caused by the influenza virus, can be a little more severe than a common cold. So the best and simplest way to protect yourself from this is to get a flu shot every year. Today, we'll answer all your questions about this.

What is this flu really?

Many people think that the flu is the same as the common cold. But that's not entirely true. Although both are caused by viruses, the flu is caused by a virus called influenza. The symptoms can be a little more severe than the common cold.

• Getting a high fever
• Severe pain in the body
• Extreme fatigue and weakness
• Severe headache
• Dry cough

These symptoms can last for several days, or even a week or two. Also, people with weakened immune systems, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, and heart disease, can develop severe complications from the flu, such as pneumonia .

Can I get the flu from the vaccine? This is a question that many people ask!

The simplest answer is "no." This is the biggest myth. Think of it this way: the flu vaccine is like a lesson that teaches our body's defense system, the immune system , to "recognize" the influenza virus.

• Flu Shot: This vaccine, which we often take, contains killed (inactivated) virus parts. These cannot cause any disease. But when our immune system sees this killed virus, it recognizes it and says, "Oh... if an enemy comes, this is what it looks like," and starts making antibodies to fight it.
• Nasal Spray: This type, available in some countries, contains a live but weakened virus. It also has a very low risk of causing illness.

It takes about two weeks after getting the vaccine for your body to be fully protected. So it's best to get the vaccine before the flu season starts each year.

What are the side effects of the vaccine? Should I be afraid?

Most people can tolerate this vaccine without any problems. However, some people may experience minor discomfort. These usually disappear completely within a day or two. There is no reason to worry.

Let's see what these side effects are clearly in a table.

Side effects of nasal spray

Although not very common in Sri Lanka, this type of infection can cause things like a runny nose, headache, cough, and sore throat. These are also much milder than the common flu.

Who needs to talk to the doctor before getting vaccinated?

Although this vaccine is safe for most people, in some special cases it is essential to consult your doctor before getting the vaccine.

• If you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine: If you have had a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine, be sure to tell your doctor.
• If you have ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): This is a very rare condition that affects the nervous system. If your doctor has confirmed that you have had this condition after receiving a previous flu shot, you should also tell them about it.
• If you are very sick: If you have a slight cold or fever, it is okay, you can get the vaccine. But if you are very sick, if you have a high fever , it is best to talk to your doctor and get the vaccine after the illness has subsided a little.