All about flu vaccination: when and how to prepare

Flu vaccination is especially important for people at risk, who are more susceptible to complications. The inclusion of children, the elderly, people with chronic diseases, and other categories in these groups makes vaccination a necessary protective measure. For more information, see the Izvestia article.

The optimal time for vaccination

To achieve the best effect, flu vaccination is recommended in September or early October. This allows the body to develop immunity before the start of the epidemic season, which usually begins in November and lasts until March.

It is important to keep in mind that protective antibodies begin to be produced 2-3 weeks after the introduction of the vaccine, so the earlier the vaccine is given, the more effectively it will protect against the disease.

For whom is vaccination especially important?

Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone, but it is especially important for at-risk groups. These include children, especially under the age of 6, the elderly over the age of 65, as well as people with chronic diseases such as diabetes or heart and lung diseases.

Pregnant women, nursing mothers, as well as medical workers, teachers, and others who have contact with a large number of people are also at risk. These categories have an increased risk of developing complications from influenza and should be vaccinated first.

Preparing for the flu shot

Before vaccination, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially if you have a chronic illness or are taking immunosuppressants. The doctor can assess your health condition and confirm that the vaccination will not cause any complications.

It is not recommended to get vaccinated if you are in the period of exacerbation of any disease. It is better to postpone vaccination until full recovery, as the immune response may be weakened against the background of the disease. If you have had a cold or mild illness, it is better to wait a couple of weeks before getting vaccinated.

A few days before the vaccination, it is worth maintaining a balanced diet, drinking enough water and resting. Feeling good and having a strong immune system will help your body adapt to the vaccine faster.

A few days before the vaccination, it is better to avoid alcohol, as it can weaken the body's immune response. It is also worth temporarily reducing physical activity so that the body is not overloaded.

Important tips after vaccination

After getting vaccinated, it is important to monitor your condition. Some people may experience mild side effects, such as pain at the injection site, a slight fever, or weakness. These symptoms usually resolve within 1-2 days.

If you feel unwell after the vaccination, it is recommended to rest and drink plenty of fluids, and if necessary, take antipyretics (for example, paracetamol). If the symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor.

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