National Influenza Vaccination Week - December 6-12

In 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) to emphasize the need for a flu vaccination during the holiday season and beyond. Since the holiday season is also flu season, it increases its activity during October and peaks in December to February.

With the current COVID-19 pandemic, we fear an occurrence of a 'twindemic'— as this pandemic might also cause a surge of the flu virus. Though with the current health protocols and restrictions brought by COVID-19, the current number of influenza-like illnesses have dwindled down way below the normal percentage in an average seasonal epidemic but we can't be too careful.

If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, the first week in December is a great time to do it.

What is Flu?

The flu isn't just a nasty cold; it may lead to major health issues including pneumonia and bacterial infections, as well as hospitalization. Flu can result in death in rare cases.

• The majority of individuals who catch the flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but others can experience serious flu complications.
• Everyone is at risk of getting significant flu complications, but some people are at a higher risk than others. Flu is more likely to cause significant flu complications in persons who are at higher risk, which can lead to hospitalization or even death.
• Young children, pregnant women, those with certain chronic health disorders including asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or lung illness, and adults 65 and older are all at risk of significant flu complications. These patients are at a high risk of contracting additional ailments if they acquire the flu. Pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections are among them. Chronic health conditions, such as asthma and heart disease, are exacerbated by the flu.
• Anyone who contracts the flu can pass it on to someone who is at high risk of developing a serious disease, including children under the age of six months who are not yet eligible for the flu vaccine.
• Much like the COVID-19 virus, the flu virus can enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Getting Protected

The flu vaccine is available as an injection or as a nasal spray. The flu vaccine is also available in a variety of forms. An example would be the type of vaccine that is designed specifically for individuals over the age of 65. The flu vaccine is especially crucial if you are at a higher risk of serious flu complications. Getting vaccinated reduces your chances of getting sick with the flu, being hospitalized, or dying from it.

Though, given the fact that influenza viruses will continue to mutate over time, outbreaks are sometimes unpredictable and can turn out to be milder or more severe than predicted. This is why national influenza vaccination programs and enough vaccine supply are required yearly, in addition to increased worldwide surveillance and detection. Because vaccination is still the most effective approach to safeguard individuals.

FAQs

Q: Can I get infected after Vaccination?

A: Yes! Even after having the vaccine, it is possible to catch the virus. On the plus side, the vaccination lowers the chance of becoming ill by 40-60%.

Q: How long does the vaccine take to work?

A: The development of antibodies to combat the virus might take up to two weeks after receiving a flu vaccination. To assist limit the spread, it's best to remain cautious and avoid close contact during this period.

Q: Any possible side effects?

A: Vaccines against influenza have been shown to be safe. Muscle soreness, exhaustion, and a moderate temperature are common adverse effects in 5–10% of children.

How To Get Onboard

The best way to observe this day, if you haven't already, is to get your flu shot. Here are some steps you can do to help spread awareness of the National Influenza Vaccination Week.

• Know the symptoms of the flu which include fever, aching muscles, chills, sweats, exhaustion, and headache.
• Learn more about common flu vaccination myths, such as the flu shot giving people the flu, the flu shot being ineffective for individuals with egg allergies, and the vaccine causing severe adverse effects.
• Spread Awareness through social media. Use hashtag #NationalInfluenzaVaccinationWeek
• Volunteer at a vaccination drives if it is within your means; Assist individuals to register for vaccination slots, create humorous posters to lead them to vaccination facilities, or reach out to the underprivileged.
• Attend a Webinar on Vaccination Promotion as it is always nice to be conscious of matters as serious as the flu vaccination, and there's no such thing as too much knowledge. Stay informed of the flu virus changes and mutations through Webinars and encourage your friends to join too!

Let's get vaccinated to enjoy our holiday season worry-free!

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/resource-center/nivw/activities.htm

https://www.nfid.org/category/national-influenza-vaccination-week/