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Flu Season is Here!

Flu symptoms

Last Saturday, my family got their annual flu shot.  Since I was introduced to the shot, I make it to a point to be vaccinated yearly for the protection and prevention of flu infection.

Influenza, commonly known as the “flu” or trangkaso, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.  The virus is easily spread through droplets from coughs or sneezes.  The virus can be caught from hard surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboards, and phones then transferred to the eyes, mouth or nose.  In the Philippines, the flu season peaks from July to October.

With flu shots, I noticed we do not get colds and coughs as much during the year.  If we do get colds and coughs, the condition is not prolonged and we recover quickly only after several days.

This year, we paid P520 for each shot, P20 more than last year.  For me, this is economical compared to the cost of coughs syrups and antibiotics to address the fever, clogged nose and coughing.  Not to mention the lessened worry, care giving and number of absences from work and school for that needed bed rest when sick.

You may have the flu with these following symptoms: fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, diarrhea and vomiting.

According to doctors, flu shots are given yearly because the virus strain changes its molecular structural yearly.  Thus, based on the informed guess of the World Health Organization, the vaccine is formulated accordingly.

Senior citizens (over the age of 60), children (from 6 months old to 5 years), pregnant women, anyone exposed to a long-term care facility, and individuals with chronic medical conditions (hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and kidney disease) are at the highest risk of flu infection.

‘Wag nang intayin na trangkasuhin. (Do not wait until you have the flu).  Protect yourself and your family by having your flu shot this early.

Savings tip:  Form a group of 10 and you can avail of flu shots at a discounted price.