Abu Dhabi, UAE – As flu season intensifies in the UAE, healthcare professionals are warning of a surge in severe cases that can feel “like being hit by a truck.” The highly contagious nature of the virus, coupled with the emergence of new strains, has led to an increase in hospitalizations and complications.
Doctors are urging residents to prioritize flu vaccination as the most effective way to protect themselves and others from severe illness. The vaccine is particularly important for high-risk groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Symptoms of the flu can include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and congestion. While most cases resolve on their own, some individuals may experience severe complications that require medical attention.
In addition to vaccination, healthcare professionals are also recommending preventive measures such as:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
- Staying home when sick
By taking these precautions, individuals can help reduce the spread of the flu and protect themselves and their loved ones from illness.
Know more about flu vaccination:
1. What is the flu? The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus.
2. What are the symptoms of the flu? Common symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and congestion.
3. How is the flu spread? The flu is primarily spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
4. What are the complications of the flu? The flu can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and heart failure.
5. Who is at high risk for complications from the flu? Individuals at high risk for complications include the elderly, children, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.
6. What is a flu vaccine? A flu vaccine is a preventive measure that helps protect against the flu virus.
7. How does a flu vaccine work? A flu vaccine exposes your body to a weakened or inactive form of the flu virus, triggering an immune response that helps protect you from infection.
8. Is the flu vaccine effective? The flu vaccine is generally effective, but its effectiveness can vary from year to year depending on the match between the vaccine strains and the circulating flu viruses.
9. When should I get a flu vaccine? The best time to get a flu vaccine is in the fall, before the flu season begins. However, it is still beneficial to get vaccinated later in the season.
10. How long does it take for the flu vaccine to work? It typically takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to become effective.
11. Is the flu vaccine safe? Yes, the flu vaccine is generally considered safe.
12. Can I get the flu from the flu vaccine? No, the flu vaccine cannot cause the flu.
13. Can I get a flu vaccine if I have allergies? If you have egg allergies, you should talk to your doctor about whether the flu vaccine is safe for you.
14. Can I get a flu vaccine if I am pregnant? Yes, pregnant women should get a flu vaccine.
15. Can I get a flu vaccine if I have a chronic health condition? If you have a chronic health condition, talk to your doctor about whether the flu vaccine is right for you.
16. How long does immunity from the flu vaccine last? Immunity from the flu vaccine typically lasts for one season.
17. Can I get the flu vaccine if I have already had the flu this season? Yes, you can still get the flu vaccine even if you have already had the flu this season.
18. Where can I get a flu vaccine? Flu vaccines are available at many healthcare providers, including doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and health departments.
19. Is the flu vaccine covered by insurance? Most health insurance plans cover the cost of the flu vaccine.
20. What should I do if I get sick after getting a flu vaccine? If you develop flu-like symptoms after getting a flu vaccine, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other illnesses.