Influenza

 

Influenza, also known as the flu, is caused by the influenza type A or B Virus, and mainly spreads through the air by sneezing and coughing, and by touching a contaminated surface or object. Influenza can be debilitating and can range from mild to fatal depending on the subtype. 

 

Symptoms

 

• High fever

• Sweating

• Sore throat

• Chills 

• Muscle weakness

• Headache

• Muscle and Joint pains

• A dry (non productive) cough that can later become mucous (productive)

 

Prevention

 

A vaccine is released each year with a different composition from the previous year. Each year the New Zealand Ministry of Health and the Australian Influenza Vaccine Committee meet and decide which three types of viruses are to be made into the next years vaccine. 

 

Many people with chronic conditions are eligible for a free vaccine under the National Immunisation Program. Please call and ask our friendly receptionists to check if you can recieve a free vaccination.

 

The vaccine changes each year, so it is important to get your annual flu shot to protect from the latest strains of virus.