THE City of Johannesburg will be offering influenza (flu) vaccine to the most vulnerable and health-compromised residents to ensure that when winter sets in, they are protected against flu and other opportunistic ailments.

The chilly autumn mornings are coming to an end, winter is approaching. That is when most people get a cold and end up with flu.

The flu vaccination drive kicked off in April. It will run until most of the target group are reached and the allocated vaccines are finished.

This year’s campaign is targeted mainly at children aged six months to four years, women up to two weeks after delivery, patients with any chronic disease such as pulmonary, chronic renal, diabetes mellitus, lung and heart diseases, people living with HIV, patients with compromised immune systems and people older than 65 years.

The individuals who are not in the groups mentioned above who feels that they need the vaccine can request the vaccine at their nearest facilities.

“Approximately 27 500 flu vaccines will be administered throughout 81 clinics across all seven regions of the City of Johannesburg. The city health officials will also visit places such as old age homes, chronic care facilities and rehabilitation centres within the city to give residents the flu vaccination,” said Dr Mary Daka, deputy director for Public Health Directorate in the City of Johannesburg.

“This is important as the flu vaccine is most effective in the first three to four months following the injection and will provide protection well into winter,” said Daka.

The flu season usually begins around June, so getting vaccinated at the beginning of May is the best way to be protected for winter. If you’re vaccinated, you’re less likely to catch flu and less likely to pass it on to others.

Influenza can cause many different symptoms but common symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat and body aches. It can also cause headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, shivers, vomiting and diarrhoea.

“People need to take responsibility for their own health by ensuring that they do not spread the flu bug. If you are sneezing or coughing a lot, you must visit your nearest clinic to have that checked as quickly as possible,” explained Daka.

To prevent flu infections, Daka urged residents to:

• Avoid touching the mouth and nose.

• Regularly wash hands with soap and water.

• Avoid close contact with people who might be ill.

• Reduce the time spent in crowded places, if possible.

• Improve airflow in living spaces by opening windows.

• Practise good health habits, including adequate sleep, nutritious food and physical activity.

Also Read:

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