“I believe it is still important for people to get the flu vaccine as it still plays a vital role in preventing admissions to hospital for complicated disease such as viral pneumonia secondary to influenza.” – Dr Jay Naidu, East Rand Physicians
What is the difference between the flu and a common cold?
Influenza (flu) and the common cold are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by influenza viruses only, whereas the common cold can be caused by a number of different viruses, including rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, and seasonal coronaviruses. Seasonal coronaviruses should not be confused with SARS-COV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Because flu and the common cold have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms are typically more intense and begin more abruptly. Colds are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose than people who have flu. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. Flu can have serious associated complications. *CDC
What are the differences between the flu vaccine and the Coronavirus vaccine?
The flu vaccine protects against infection from influenza viruses, whilst the COVID-19 vaccine protects against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is important to take the flu vaccine to protect oneself from influenza, thereby reducing the burden on the health system.
Is it advisable to get the COVID booster shot as well as a flu vaccine?
There is no particular requirement regarding the order of receiving the influenza and COVID-19 vaccine however the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine should be given at least 14 days apart.
According to the NICD, If both vaccines are available at the same time and an individual is eligible for both, it is recommended to prioritise the COVID-19 vaccine.
Does the flu injection make you sick? Why?
No, flu vaccines cannot cause flu illness. Flu vaccines given with a needle (i.e., flu shots) are made with either inactivated (killed) viruses, or with only a single protein from the flu virus. The nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses that are attenuated (weakened) so that they will not cause illness (CDC).
What type of patient is the flu vaccine recommended for?
Older patients over the age of 65, pregnant women and any chronic disease sufferers are classified as ‘high-risk’ and therefore it is recommended that they get the flu vaccine. There are however a number of patients who are advised to NOT be inoculated without consulting a physician.
People who SHOULD NOT get a flu shot include:
- Children younger than 6 months of age are too young to get a flu shot
- People with severe, life-threatening allergies to any ingredient in a flu vaccine (other than egg proteins) should not get that vaccine. This might include gelatin, antibiotics, or other ingredients. See Special Considerations Regarding Egg Allergy for more information about egg allergies and flu vaccine
- People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a dose of influenza vaccine should not get that flu vaccine again and might not be able to receive other influenza vaccines. If you have had a severe allergic reaction to an influenza vaccine in the past, it is important to talk with your health care provider to help determine whether vaccination is appropriate for you
If you have one of the following conditions, talk with your health care provider. He or she can help decide whether vaccination is right for you, and select the best vaccine for your situation:
- If you have an allergy to eggs or any of the ingredients in the vaccine. Talk to your doctor about your allergy. See Special Considerations Regarding Egg Allergy for more information about egg allergies and flu vaccine
- If you ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a severe paralyzing illness, also called GBS). Some people with a history of GBS should not get a flu vaccine. Talk to your doctor about your GBS history
- If you had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of any other flu vaccine, talk to your health care provider
- If you are not feeling well, talk to your doctor about your symptoms
