Act now to stop flu

TO mitigate the effect of influenza in 2016, the health department has planned for a vaccination campaign.

Influenza vaccinations started on Monday, April 11 and will continue until all vaccines have been utilised or until the end of the influenza season, which is normally winter. The influenza vaccination campaign will be implemented alongside other public health measures, both pharmaceutical (such as promoting appropriate use of antivirals) and non-pharmaceutical (for example, personal hygiene, in particular, handwashing, cough etiquette, ensuring adequate ventilation and use of personal protective equipment).

The target population includes all pregnant women, children aged between six months and five years, people living in old age homes and people who are 65 years old and over. It also includes children aged six months to 18 years receiving long-term aspirin treatment, and people with chronic diseases such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and tuberculosis, and kidney or liver failure. People living with HIV/Aids are also among the target group. Any person not falling within the high-risk groups listed above and wish to be vaccinated may also go to their nearest clinic.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms: fever or feeling feverish, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhoea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Get vaccinated now before the flu season starts. All vaccines are offered at the clinics at no cost.