It is estimated that at least 20% of Australians are affected by flu every year and flu vaccinations have undoubtedly become the best protection there is against flu; especially during peak season of these infections. They are effective in reducing flu-related illnesses, significantly lessening the number of doctor visits and also eliminating the need for missed work and school as a result of the flu. On the extreme, they also help reduce hospitalisation as well as death incidences. So you should never worry about the flu shot prices as these are nothing when compared to the money you save on the issues caused due to flu.

When to get vaccinated

Flu season normally peaks during the winter, and therefore, it is necessary that before the start of the season people can get the shots as these take time before they are effective. A time like October is a good timing for an injection. However, as flu viruses are always on a continuous circulation, it’s recommended that people get vaccinations throughout the season. Early immunization is the safest bet on this.

How to get the vaccine

You can get the flu vaccination shots by visiting the nearest medical center that is available in your area. Usually, there are two common types of vaccines that are administered. Trivalent and the quadrivalent vaccines. Trivalent usually protects against two viruses, 2 influenza A viruses and then one influenza B virus. These vaccinations can be administered through injections. The quadrivalent vaccines are designed to protect against two influenza A viruses and 2 influenza B viruses. These are also available through flu shots.

How long the flu shot protects you

There are two main reasons why flu injections are administered to people during these seasons. The first reason is body immunity response from vaccination will normally decline over time. Therefore, an annual vaccination would be recommended to boost protection. Additionally, flu viruses are ever-changing and thus, the formulation of the vaccines too needs to be reviewed so that they can match these changes. It’s, therefore, recommended that people get annual vaccinations as long as you are six months and older.

Effectivity

For vaccinations for flu to work, they will normally take up to two weeks. This is because the body has to develop antibodies so that they can offer the defense against influenza virus infections. It’s for these reasons that people are advised to get vaccinated early in the fall to give time for antibodies to form so that you will be protected when flu begins spreading during the peak season.

Safety

Most vaccines have actually impressive track records as regards to safety. Besides, the center for disease control and prevention closely monitors the safety of these vaccines. What you can witness, however, are possible side effects such as fainting, nausea, headaches among others, but they are nothing to worry much about. Serious side effects such as racing heart and heavy breathing normally will begin in few minutes to hours after administration of the shot. Medical attention should, however, be sought promptly in case of such effects. Flu shot prices are affordable in many medical centers, thus there is no need to compromise on safety.

Flu vaccinations have been the most instrumental method of keeping flu at bay within the human race. Minimizing the need for sick leaves and lessening the doctor visits are some of the other ways you will benefit from these shots besides the health protecting advantage. Flu shot prices are mostly affordable. They are effective, safe and readily available.

For more information on how to prevent flu Brisbane wide, simply visit a medical centre near you. http://smartclinics.com.au/our-services/flu/