Anyone can be vulnerable to the influenza virus. The beginning of autumn is also when the flu season begins. Young, old, and the immunocompromised are those who need the flu vaccine. The good news is that the vaccine is available for free at the NHS. Although the coverage of the vaccine is pretty much everyone, there are a number of people who can't get the flu jab because they are allergic to the ingredients of the vaccine.
Alongside the cacophony of viruses that people get from their environment, the flu virus is making its rounds as well. The influenza virus comes with a variety of strains, one of them is the common cold. Students become extra vulnerable even to the common colds with the cold, dry air that causes the mucous glands to dry up.
Fortunately, doctors still advise those suffering from the common colds to still get the flu vaccine. They consider it as a mild infection, so those who have it can still get protected from the stronger strain of the influenza virus.
However, doctors advise against people with the flu virus from getting the vaccine. Those who also have fever from another illness should not get the flu virus. It may bring about unwanted results or none at all. It is either the vaccine does not work at all or that it may bring about complications that can only make conditions worse.
People who also have medication allergies should consult with their physician before getting the flu vaccine. They may be allergic to one of its contents, so it is best to get clearance from their attending physician.
People who are currently taking antibiotics to cure an infection may get the flu vaccine. Is it possible to contract the flu even with the flu vaccine?
"You are protected from the flu because of the vaccine," said Dr. Tanaya Bhowmick, an expert in infectious disease from the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
However, she said that it is important for people to note that it takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to take effect. Within this period, people can contract the flu virus.
Nonetheless, she mentioned that the vaccine contains a weakened form of the virus to allow the body to generate its autoimmune response. This is to ensure that if the body contracts the virus within a given time frame, it knows exactly how to fight it.
"It is essentially getting a mini flu illness," Bhowmick added. This is why people feel a bit under the weather after getting vaccinated. But that's the body's natural way of reacting to the vaccine. Doctors say there is nothing to worry about.
The best way to protect yourself from the flu virus is to get vaccinated. Eating healthy, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep should help strengthen the body. A healthy body and a healthy mind can help students get through their school work without delays.
