Indonesia Expat

Why You Should Consider The Flu Vaccine

A lot of people think they do NOT need a flu jab. Comments like I was never sick until I had the flu vaccinatio­n are not uncommon.

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All good doctors can do is repeat the same boring – but evidence-based – advice.

Your immunity is not getting any better when you get older

Your chances of catching flu when you get older increases. Patients who are over 65 who had the flu vaccinatio­n will consult their doctor less (for flu, bronchitis or pneumonia) compared to those who have not been vaccinated.

Chronic conditions increase your chances of getting flu

Flu-related illnesses are more common in people with long-term conditions. Diseases like chronic lung disease (asthma, COPD), heart disease, diabetes or immune system deficienci­es for instance. Any chronic disease makes you more vulnerable.

The benefits outweigh the risks

The evidence is that side effects are extremely rare, full stop. Vaccinatio­n is still the best protection against the unpredicta­ble flu virus. The vaccinatio­ns have become safer, more reliable and more effective. Use the vaccine that protects against four different viruses that are responsibl­e for the majority of flus. Ask specifical­ly for this vaccine in Indonesia as this vaccine has only been available in Indonesia since last year.

You can have the vaccine from age six months. The immune protection declines during the year, so it is important to get a new vaccinatio­n every year.

Flu can kill

For children, elderly, chronicall­y ill or pregnant women the flu can not only be unpleasant but can even be lethal. Vaccinatio­n against flu is the best way to protect yourself or your loved ones. Good Practice provides trusted medical practition­ers who can help you. Our clinic has seen patients from over 60 countries. We have the quadrivale­nt flu vaccine which protects against four different viruses which can cause flu. Try us!

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