As the colder months approach in Eswatini, many people begin to experience flu-like symptoms such as coughing, fever, body aches, and fatigue.
While some may dismiss it as just a seasonal cold, influenza, commonly known as the flu — is a serious viral infection that can lead to severe illness, especially for vulnerable individuals.
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your family is through annual flu vaccination.
WHAT IS THE FLU (UMKHUHLANE)?
Influenza is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses.
It affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms often come suddenly and can be much more severe.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, sore throat, cough, headaches, body pains, fatigue, and sometimes shortness of breath. In children, vomiting and diarrhoea may also occur.
For some people, the flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, worsening of chronic illnesses, hospitalisation, and in severe cases, death.
WHY IS THE FLU VACCINE IMPORTANT?
- The flu vaccine helps your body develop protection against the most common flu viruses expected during the season. It is updated every year because flu viruses change over time.
- Getting vaccinated does not mean you will never catch the flu, but it greatly reduces the risk of severe illness and serious complications.
- Vaccination is especially important because it also helps protect those around you — particularly people who are more vulnerable to infections.
WHO SHOULD GET THE FLU VACCINE?
While the flu vaccine is recommended for almost everyone, it is especially important for:
- Elderly people aged 65 years and above
- Pregnant women
- Children under five years
- Healthcare workers
- People living with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension, and heart disease
- People living with HIV/AIDS
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
These groups are at a higher risk of developing serious complications if they contract the flu.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GET VACCINATED?
- The best time to receive the flu vaccine is before the winter season begins, ideally between March and May in Southern Africa. This gives your body enough time to build immunity before flu cases increase.
- However, if you miss this period, it is still beneficial to get vaccinated later rather than not at all.
- Because the vaccine changes yearly, annual vaccination is necessary for continued protection.
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE FLU VACCINE
Many people avoid vaccination because of myths and misinformation.
Myths vs. Facts
- One common myth is that the flu vaccine causes flu. This is not true. The vaccine cannot cause influenza. Some people may experience mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, slight tiredness, or a mild fever, but these usually disappear within a day or two.
- Another misconception is that healthy people do not need the vaccine. In reality, even healthy individuals can get infected and spread the virus to vulnerable family members and colleagues.
- Some also believe that taking last year’s vaccine is enough. Unfortunately, because flu viruses change and immunity reduces over time, the vaccine must be taken every year.
CONCLUSION
Prevention is always better than cure.
A simple annual flu vaccine can protect your health, reduce medical costs, prevent missed work or school days, and most importantly, save lives.
At Ekuphileni Clinic, we encourage everyone to take their health seriously this flu season. The flu vaccine is currently available at our pharmacy, and our healthcare professionals are ready to provide guidance and support.
Do not wait until flu season reaches its peak. Visit Ekuphileni Clinic today and get vaccinated — because protecting your health starts with prevention.
Located in Mbabane at SMVAF Office Park, Mbhilibhi Street, Ekuphileni Clinic offers a wide range of services including GP consultations and an in-house pharmacy, ensuring that all your medical needs are met in one convenient location.
For enquiries, call 7602 3380 / 2408 9500 or visit www.ekuphileniclinic.com
