Flu shot

Flu is caused by a virus. Some people can become seriously ill from it. This is especially true for people aged 60 and older or those with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems due to illness or medication. Every autumn, general practitioners and institutional physicians invite these groups of people for a free flu shot. This shot protects against serious consequences of the flu.

Flu is worse than a cold

The flu makes you feel sick. You usually get a high fever, headache, muscle aches, or chills that come on suddenly. It usually takes 1 to 3 weeks for you to recover. The influenza virus (flu) causes the flu. The flu is a contagious disease. You can therefore pass the virus on to other people, who in turn can become sick.

People often use the terms cold and flu interchangeably. But for the target group for the annual flu shot, the flu can have more serious consequences. These can include permanent reduced fitness, worsening of existing conditions, hospitalization, or even death. Approximately 4,700 people die from the flu each year.

How does the flu shot work?

The flu shot teaches your body to defend itself against the flu virus. This allows your body to immediately recognize the flu virus and respond quickly to the infection. This reduces your risk of getting the flu by 35%. It's possible that you might still get the flu despite the shot. In that case, the flu shot usually reduces your severity of the illness. For example, you're 40% less likely to need hospitalization. The flu shot is the best protection against the flu. Good hygiene also helps reduce your risk of getting the flu. Therefore, wash your hands regularly with soap and water, stay home if you have any symptoms, and cough and sneeze into your elbow.

Is the flu shot safe?

The flu shot is a safe vaccine with few side effects. It has decades of experience. Millions of people worldwide get the flu shot every year. You cannot get the flu from the flu shot.