In hot climates, the arrival of winter’s cooler weather is always well-received. What’s not so welcome, however, is the arrival of flu season.
Flu (or influenza) is a highly contagious virus. Its symptoms, which include fever, fatigue, aching joints and headache, can last anywhere up to 2 weeks. Antivirals can help with the symptoms, but for some people, getting flu puts them at risk of very serious illness.
To protect you, and those and around you, and to help minimize the spread of flu, doctors recommend getting the flu vaccine every winter. Here, we answer some of the common questions you might have about the flu shot:
Will the vaccine make me sick?
The flu vaccine contains an inactive virus, so it isn’t infectious and won’t cause you to become sick with the flu. Some people may experience a mild reaction following the shot, with symptoms including a low-grade fever, headache and achy muscles. You may also experience some soreness, tenderness or redness around the site of the vaccination. Severe reactions are rare, and like milder reactions, will typically occur within a few minutes to a few hours of having the vaccination.
I had the vaccine last year – do I need it again?
You need to have a flu vaccine every year. The flu virus changes and mutates every season, so scientists develop new vaccines that will offer protection against the new strains that are most likely to make you unwell that year. Our immunity also decreases over time, so an annual vaccine is the best way to ensure you’re protected.
When should I receive the flu vaccine?
Cases of flu increase during the winter months. To maximize protection, you should have the flu vaccine in early autumn. The shot will protect you for a minimum of 6 months – enough to last the flu season.
Isn’t the flu vaccine only for young children and the elderly?
Young children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions, like diabetes, heart disease and lung disease, are more likely to suffer complications from flu. However, the virus can infect even the healthiest of individuals and when serious, can lead to hospitalization and even death. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi recommends everyone over the age of 3 should receive the flu vaccine.
I have had the COVID vaccine – do I still need the flu shot?
The virus that causes flu, and the virus that causes COVID, are different. The COVID vaccine will not offer protection against the flu virus, and the flu vaccine will not offer protection against the COVID virus. It is safe, and very important, to have both vaccines to protect yourself and those around you.
By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself, but also those around you who are most at risk, by minimizing the spread of the virus.
Book your flu vaccine appointment at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
To book your flu shot, please call our Call Center on 800 8 2223.
You can also book via the Patient Portal mobile app or website.
Please bring your Emirates ID and insurance details.
Protecting our community, together.