Getting Vaccinated

Does the flu shot really work? Here’s what you need to know about it.

- Vida Lisik

WINTER is upon us and some adults and children are already sniffling, blowing into tissues and feeling under the weather. If you’re prone to picking up infections from others, you might want to consider getting a flu shot.

The flu vaccine is very important to people who are most at risk of getting the flu, says Dr Elijah Nkosi, a general practitioner in Soweto.

“These include the elderly, people who are immuno compromised due to living with HIV or cancer and babies,” he explains.

Dr Nkosi says it’s easier to pick up the virus when in crowded areas, for example, trains, buses, taxis, crèches, schools and offices. A health worker can also cut down their risk of contracting the virus by getting vaccinated, he adds.

It takes time for your body to develop antibodies against the virus, Dr Nkosi says, but there’s still time to get the jab.

“While it’s best to get the jab before the onset of winter (preferably February until April), you can still get the vaccine later in the year because it’s still possible to get the flu in early spring.”

But, he cautions, don’t get the shot when you’re not feeling well.

“It’s not advisable to take the vaccine when you have a cold/flu or you’re not feeling well because your immune system might be low and the virus used in the vaccine can infect you, as your body is unable to defend you,” he advises.