Friday 21 March 2014

Australian Flu Vaccine 2014

Always had the Flu Vaccine each year due to the nature of my work. Then I decided I wouldn't have it for many years.  Last year 2013 as my husband being older we decided to have Pneumonia injection and two weeks after the Flu Vaccine, the later each year.
So a few days ago we had it.

Influenza is a serious viral illness that causes 1,500 to 3,500 deaths in Australia each year from complications such as pneumonia and secondary bacterial infections.

There are two major types in humans – influenza A and influenza B, with the A strain causing more severe disease. Influenza B, however, causes a disproportionate amount of illness in children.
The virus also has many animal hosts including birds, pigs and horses. Genetic mixing between human and animal strains can cause new pandemic strains, to which humans have little or no pre-existing immunity. This susceptibility gives rise to rapid spread, high rates of illness and more severe disease.  via (SBS)

I wonder how many people have the flue injection each year in Autumn?


10 comments:

  1. I never miss getting flu shot. I get it each year on or about my birthday which is September 25th. Spring is starting here and you are starting fall. I would love to see your part of the world!

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    1. Must remember your birthday :) Our Autumn commenced March 1.
      Maybe one day you will see it, it's nice to dream :)

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  2. It was the wise decision. Ifluenza is a seriuos disease and fatal sometimes.

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    1. Yes, you are correct Gosia, especially for those with some health problems, the young and the elderly.

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  3. a good idea for the elderly and those with asthma etc or working with the public. i always had it through work but the last few years i haven't bothered. my doctor is always asking me about it.

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    1. Certainly those people require one. I suppose you will have it again one day.

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  4. Yes we had ours last week. I casually asked the doctor what is the success rate . I was shocked to find out that it is on 52%.

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    1. That's true Diane, however we take the chance, and hopefully our immune systems builds up over time and therefore might help with what we are not inoculated for.

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