Flus are never fun – and sometimes they can be fatal.
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That’s why pharmacists are encouraging the community to get vaccinated now.
Each year, 13,500 people are hospitalised with the flu. Last year’s was a killer. Literally. The fast-mutating and evolving strain of influenza A (H3N2) caused a record number of flu-related deaths, particularly among older people and children.
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“It scared everybody,” pharmacist-in-charge Kaye Clack, of Armidale Life Pharmacy, said. “It can strike anyone, anywhere – but there is a preventative for it.”
The pharmacy is one of many around town where eligible patients 18 years or older can be vaccinated.
“Vaccines expose the body to inactivated parts of the flu virus, creating an immune response, so the body is prepared,” administering pharmacist Josh Lee explained.
“When the body comes across the actual flu virus in the wild, it’s already prepared and ready to fight it off.”
Flu season hits around June and peaks in August. It generally takes two to three weeks for your body to develop immunity after your shot, but the vaccine should protect you for three or four months, taking you safely through the flu season.
“Now is the perfect time to get the vaccination,” Ms Clark said. “The Department of Health have recommended this time because this protects people individually, but it also protects people who can’t be vaccinated for some medical reason.”
Your doctor or pharmacist can help you determine the best time to be vaccinated. Those who are at highest risk of serious complications from flu include pregnant women, people over 65, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, and young children.
Some groups of patients may be eligible for a free vaccination through the National Immunisation Program.
People over 65 should talk to their doctor about a new super-booster vaccine to better protect them.
Always check with your pharmacist or doctor what your options are.
Patients can also support their immune system by drinking plenty of water, getting enough rest and exercise, and managing stress effectively. You can also talk to your pharmacist about additional supplements that may help, such as zinc and vitamin C.