Get your flu shots and fight the cold

FLU SHOTS: Health experts point out that each person who is vaccinated, reduces the expected number of other people who could get infected.

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New Delhi: The unusually cold weather has meant more cases of nasty flu, however, doctors are recommending flu shots or the vaccine to prevent the flu.

With more and more people losing workdays to viral fever, a 20-30 per cent rise in cases across the city, many are finding flu shots an answer to the problem. Doctors say the vaccine works especially for those with lower immunity.

“Flu shots highly recommended in children between 6 months to 24 months and pregnant women,” says Consultant, Respiratory and Critical Care Dr Rajesh Chawla.

What are flu shots?

The influenza vaccine has been in India for more than five years, however, very few have heard of it, unlike in the US where kids and adults are regularly inoculated.

It works like any other vaccine, containing strains of dead influenza viruses that build the body's immunity. It costs between Rs 500-600 for a shot in the arm and needs to be taken once a year at the start of the winter season.

However, the flu shots are not recommended for everyone, especially for those who are severely allergic to eggs and egg products as flu shots are grown inside eggs. Infants less than six-months old must not be given flu shots. People with running fever must also avoid it.

Health experts point out that each person who is vaccinated, reduces the expected number of other people who could get infected.