Public encouraged to get seasonal flu shots

Some private hospitals have started giving influenza vaccines as cold seasons approach. The National Center of Communicable Diseases is set to begin vaccination in mid-September. The center is highly likely to raise the administration fee for influenza vaccines but not by too much, experts speculate.

The Ulaanbaatar Songdo Hospital has imported Korean influenza vaccines and is vaccinating patients for 33,000 MNT per shot between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. You can get vaccinated against influenza for 25,000 MNT at Bayangol Hospital and for 45,000 MNT at Intermed Hospital during work hours.

The SOS Medica Mongolia reported that it will provide influenza vaccines starting from October 1, whereas Grand Med and Gurvan Gal Hospitals notified that they will not be giving such vaccines this year.

KEY FACTS ABOUT SEASONAL FLU VACCINES

Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in the vaccine.

The National Center of Communicable Diseases recommends everyone to read through the following recommendations and information related to influenza vaccines before getting vaccinated.

Get influenza vaccine once a year:

The correct dose of inactivated (injectable) vaccine that should be administered intramuscularly for children six to 35 months of age is 0.25 ml.

The recommended dosage for children above the age of three and adults is 0.5 ml.

Who should not be vaccinated?

Children younger than six months are too young to get a flu shot.

People with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine. This might include gelatin, antibiotics, or other ingredients.

If you have an allergy to eggs or any of the ingredients in the vaccine. Talk to your doctor first.

If you ever had Guillain-Barre Syndrome (a severe paralyzing illness, also called GBS), you should not get this vaccine. Talk to your doctor about your GBS history first.

Vaccine Side Effects:

Some minor side effects that may occur are: Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given Fever (low grade)

Aches

Runny nose

Wheezing

Headache

Vomiting

Muscle aches

Fever

If these problems occur, it’s highly advisable to see a doctor.

Other facts:

Flu vaccines work best if administered a month before influenza season. Pregnant and mothers who breastfeed can get vaccinated but they should speak with a doctor first.

The area where the shot was given should be kept clean and if infected, please see a doctor immediately.