FLU (influenza) is a seasonal acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza viruses.  Seasonal influenza is characterized by a sudden occurrence of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, and runny nose.

It can spread easily through coughs or sneezes – when the infectious droplets are dispersed into the air up to one meter.  In addition, it can also be spread by hands contaminated with the viruses.

People in high-risk or certain age-groups may be severely ill if infected by the Influenza viruses.  Death may even occur in very severe cases.

WHY SEASONAL FLU VACCINATION?

Other than regular hand-washing and good respiratory hygiene – covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, it is known that the best method to prevent flu illness is VACCINATION.  However, the vaccine is most effective when it contains several strains of flu virus that are expected to be the most common for that season. Because flu virus evolves over time, the seasonal flu vaccines have to be prepared to match the types of flu viruses within the prevailing season.

In Singapore, seasonal outbreaks of flu occur regularly and throughout the year.  THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE FLU SEASON generally occurs between May and September.  The NORTHERN HEMISPHERE FLU SEASON is from October to April.

While safe and effective vaccines are readily available, their effectiveness wane over time, so annual vaccination is recommended to protect against it.  Annual vaccination is especially recommended for the people group below:

• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• Children aged between 6 months to 5 years
• Elderly individuals (aged more than 65 years)
• Individuals with chronic medical conditions
• Health-care workers

(Sources: World Health Organization and Health Hub SG)