Flu Vaccine

What is the Flu Vaccine?

The influenza vaccine/ flu vaccine helps to prevent influenza (flu) that is typically caused by Influenza virus Type A and Type B. Contracting influenza typically results in fever, body ache, headache, sore throat and cough.

A single dose is recommended every year, as the flu virus changes rapidly and our body’s immunity against it may decline.

The flu vaccine is typically updated twice a year, during April and September, to cover different strains that is expected to be most common for that season.

Who should take the Flu vaccine?

Everyone should take the flu vaccine. Especially the following:

Elderly aged 65 years and older
Pregnant women in any trimester
Persons with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or heart, lung, liver and kidney disease
Persons with lower body resistance to infections due to :
Conditions such as leukaemia, HIV, spleen removal, or organ transplant
Using medications or receiving treatment such as taking long-term steroids, certain cancer drugs or radiation therapy
Residents staying in intermediate or long-term care facilities
Persons aged 18 years or younger and receiving long-term aspirin therapy
Children aged 6 months old to 59 months

What are the side effects of the Flu vaccine?

Side effects of the Flu vaccine may include pain or swelling over the injection site, as well as fever, headache, bodyache or tiredness.

These usually go away on their own within 2-3 days. Paracetamol can help to relieve the fever or pain.

Symptoms of severe allergic reaction may include difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face/ eyes/ lips as well as generalised skin rashes. You should see a doctor immediately when experiencing any of these symptoms.

What is the cost of the Flu vaccine?

Government subsidy available for Pioneer Generation, Merdeka Generation, CHAS Blue or Orange, CHAS Green. Please check your eligibility here. Fees include consultation charges and we will advise on the total cost before proceeding with the vaccination.