Sponsored
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Sponsored | Updated : October 3, 2022 3:07 PM IST
Influenza or flu 2 is a viral infection whose symptoms include mild fever and headache. But we cannot ignore the possible long-term effects and complications of influenza.
As we all know, the flu spreads quickly and affects the respiratory system - nose, throat, and lungs. There are other effects that can be experienced within the body as well.
Flu is more daunting for people with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs), diabetes, and senior citizens. 2
Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) 3 affect the airways as well as the other structures of the lungs. Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary hypertension, and occupational lung diseases are some of the common CRDs. For individuals with CRDs, flu can complicate their existing condition.
Therefore, it is advisable for patients with asthma or other chronic respiratory diseases to get an influenza vaccination.
Diabetic patients (type 1, type 2, or gestational) 4 are at higher risk of being infected by influenza virus, which may cause more complications leading to hospitalizations and deaths. Some of the common flu-related complications include bronchitis, pneumonia, sinus infections, and ear infections.
Flu can worsen diabetes and weaken the immune system. Therefore, diabetic patients are advised to be vaccinated against flu.
Citizens 65 years of age and above are at greater risk of developing severe complications caused by Influenza. A postulated reason for this is the changes that take place in the immune system associated with age. 7
The risk of flu-related complications, pneumonia, and hospitalization is particularly high for people 65 and older. The risk of heart attack increases by 3-5 times and stroke by 2-3 times and these risks can occur within the first two weeks of infection for individuals over 65. 8 The risk can continue to be elevated for several months. Hence, people 65 years or older are at a six-times higher risk of dying from flu and related complications. 5
Vaccination plays an important role when it comes to avoiding influenza. But there are a few additional simple steps that can help you prevent it. 6
All persons aged 6 months who do not have contraindications should be vaccinated annually. However, vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for persons who are at increased risk for severe illness and complications from influenza and for influenza-related outpatient, emergency department, or hospital visits.1
In summary, all At-risk populations, especially the elderly or suffering from COPD, Asthma and Diabetes must consider flu vaccination every year to prevent flu disease and related complications. Please consult your doctor for vaccination.
If you wish to read more about influenza and its vaccination, you can visit Protection Beyond Flu. Ask a doctor by booking an appointment here.
The information in this article is issued in public interest by Sanofi India with the intention to create general awareness around immunization. This information does not constitute any medical advice, opinion and/or recommendation/ promotion of Sanofi products. Please consult your doctor for details regarding immunization.
MAT-IN-2202543-1.0-09/22
