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Fever? Cough? Chills? Muscle Aches?

The seasonal flu will be almost as inescapable as the holiday weight now that the peak months are upon us. The flu can survive for longer indoors during winter, which is where we’ll tend to spend most of our time from here on. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the coming months will pose a greater threat than ever before and it’s time to buckle up and take all the precautions necessary.

What is the seasonal flu?

Influenza, more commonly known as the Flu, is a contagious viral illness that largely affects the respiratory system. The symptoms can range anywhere from a couple of sneezes a day to not feeling strong enough to leave your bed for days.

What are the exact symptoms to look out for?

Fever and chills, body aches particularly the back and legs, runny nose or nasal congestion.
Tummy disturbances like vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pains
Breathlessness, dizziness, extremely high fever or continuous vomiting need to reported immediately

In newborns or infants, any sign of dehydration or them not being able to keep any food down needs to be noted. Babies and toddlers usually recover in a week as long as they stay home and rest up but they can remain contagious for longer. Promote regular hand washing and ask kids not to share food with others till the symptoms subside completely. Make sure to reach out to your pediatrician or GP for guidance throughout.

What should I do to protect my family?

Everyone should take precautions and get treatment, especially children and elder people who are at most risk, such as:

Washing hands with soap and water as often as one can.
Avoid visiting overly crowded areas
Maintain social distance at all times if out.
Loading up on warm fluids and resting

Most importantly, get your family vaccinated.

Seasonal Flu Vaccine

How does the seasonal flu jab work?

The flu vaccine protects from all types of influenza viruses that might prevail during flu season. And no, the vaccine will not give you the flu. It only notifies the body to build antibodies to fight off the virus, strengthening your immunity.

It’s advisable to get the shot at least once a year and preferably before fall season starts. If not, then definitely before winter comes around before the flu is most likely to hit its peak.

Global response to flu vaccination

Countries like the UK and UAE have launched public health campaigns to encourage flu vaccination.

In the UK, free flu vaccine is provided to everyone with special attention given to pregnant women, children between 2-11 years, members of shielding household, frontline health and social workers, those above 65 years as well as those with any long-term conditions.

The “Protect Yourself, Protect Your Community” campaign launched by UAE aims to raise awareness amongst the masses about the importance of seasonal flu vaccination. One of the major initiatives is the SEHA drive-through vaccination services at various Abu Dhabi locations, free of cost to all residents. For a fee, you can get vaccinated at home!

Similarly, countries all over the world have been committed to preventing any and every occurrence of any and every flu or flu-like disease. This year has made it clearer than ever that nothing can and nothing should be above your health.

If you haven’t already, it’s never too late to get looking into this and booking yourself and your family a vaccination appointment.

The Nurturey app makes it easy to book your appointment as well as provides you with all the information necessary prior to your appointment. Get your flu shot today, protect yourself so you can protect those around you!