While the flu season is at its peak, there is a lot of misinformation about the flu, and these misconceptions often prevent people from getting vaccinated. Prof. Avishai Ellis, Chairman of the Association for Internal Medicine and Director of the Internal Medicine Department at Blinson Hospital, debunks five common myths
Myths about the flu – five things you probably don’t know about the flu vaccine.
The seasonal flu is at its peak with the latest spike in flu cases in Israel and the Ministry of Health predicts a continued increase. Experts agree that the flu vaccine is the best and most cost-effective way to prevent and control the spread of the flu. Unfortunately there is a lot of misinformation about the flu, these misconceptions often prevent people from getting vaccinated. Prof. Avishai Ellis, chairman of the Internal Medicine Association and director of the Internal Medicine Department at Blinson Hospital, debunks five common myths:
Myth #1: The flu is harmless – it’s just like a cold
“This is not true. Influenza should be taken seriously because it can lead to serious complications and hospitalization, especially for at-risk groups. Influenza is estimated to affect one billion people worldwide each year. On average, 290,000-650,000 people die from the flu each year. Although you may Thinking that you feel healthy and that infection with the flu virus will not harm your health in the long run, it is important to remember that people you may come into contact with every day are also at risk – the elderly, children, parents of children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases may be at risk of contracting the flu virus from you.” .
Myth #2: Vaccines won’t help – I’m fine with the flu anyway
“This is not true. The World Health Organization considers the flu vaccine the most effective and cost-effective way to prevent and control the spread of the flu. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of getting the flu, but if you get the flu anyway, the symptoms should be less severe than if you didn’t get the vaccine Against influenza The vaccine strengthens the immune system and helps defend against the virus and significantly reduce health complications, hospitalizations and severe respiratory symptoms.
Myth #3: The flu vaccine is only for young children
“This is not true. Flu can affect anyone, regardless of age. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the flu vaccine for all groups considered at risk of developing complications, including children from six months to five years old, older people (over 65 years old), women pregnant (at any stage) and people with chronic diseases such as diabetes. Regardless of age, people should get vaccinated against the flu to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Myth #4: The COVID-19 vaccine protects you from the flu
“This is not true. The similarity in symptoms of influenza and COVID-19 can make it difficult to distinguish between the two viral infections, but they are not the same. It is essential to receive both vaccines at the times recommended by your doctor. Influenza vaccines are available at any pharmacy, and the personal physician Yours truly can also advise on the matter.”
Myth #5 You only need to get the vaccine once in your life
“This is not true. Due to the constantly changing flu viruses, the World Health Organization continuously monitors and updates its recommendations for the composition of the vaccines. Getting a flu vaccine every year is essential to ensure optimal and lasting protection against the flu viruses and the rapidly evolving variants.”
Dr. Eran Gefen, Abbott’s Head of Global Medicine and Pharmacovigilance, said: “Vaccines have proven their effectiveness in preventing influenza infections for more than 70 years. Remember, flu shots aren’t just for your personal health – they’re also a way to help protect the health of those around you.”
Along with vaccination, there are other simple measures, including regular hand washing, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding mixing with others when you have symptoms such as a cough, sore throat or runny nose, to help limit the spread of the virus and keep you and your loved ones healthy.