Influenza
Prevention
You can help prevent influenza by getting immunized with an influenza vaccine each year, ideally in October or November. The inactivated influenza vaccine, commonly known as the "flu shot," is given by injection. This form of the vaccine effectively prevents most cases of the flu, although success rates vary according to age, health status, and how closely the virus strains contained in the vaccine match those that are circulating through the population.
Even if a flu shot does not prevent the flu, the vaccine can reduce the severity of flu symptoms and decrease the risk of complications. Studies have found that the flu shot results in fewer days missed from work and fewer visits to a doctor for respiratory infections, and it reduces the number of people who develop complications from the flu, such as pneumonia.1
In spite of these results, many people choose not to get a flu shot. Some do not get the shot because of myths they believe about the flu or the vaccine. The flu shot may cause side effects in some people, but they are usually minor and do not last long.
To help you decide if the flu shot is right for you, see:
Other ways to reduce your risk of getting the flu or developing complications
Increase your chance of staying healthy by:
- Washing your hands often, especially during winter months when the flu is most common.
- Keeping your hands away from your nose, eyes, and mouth. Viruses are most likely to enter your body through these areas.
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet.
- Getting regular exercise.
- Not smoking. Smoking irritates the lining of your nose, sinuses, and lungs, which may make you susceptible to complications of the flu.
Using antiviral medications to prevent the flu
The antiviral medications amantadine and rimantadine may prevent flu caused by influenza A, but they may not work in some years because the influenza virus has become resistant to them.4 Amantadine and rimantadine do not protect against influenza B. It is important to talk with your doctor about the medication that is best for you.
Two other antiviral medications (zanamivir and oseltamivir) can prevent the flu caused by influenza A and B viruses. These medications may also reduce the length of the illness if they are given no more than 48 hours after the first symptoms. During a flu outbreak, these medications may be given at the same time as the flu shot and for 2 weeks after while your body produces antibodies to protect you from the virus. These medications are taken by mouth (pill) or inhaled into the lungs (inhaler).
Some people cannot have a flu shot because they are allergic to eggs, from which the vaccine is made.
For more information, see:
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| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC | Last Updated: September 22, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease | |
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