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【Free 2024/25 Flu Vaccination】Start protecting your health with a flu shot!

Last year, the flu situation in Hong Kong was particularly concerning, with hundreds of people needing ICU admission, and over half of those cases resulting in death. Tragically, some young children also lost their lives to the flu, reminding us of the importance of taking action early to protect ourselves and those around us.

Every year, the government heavily promotes flu vaccines, but do you really understand what the flu is? While both the flu and the common cold are respiratory infections, the flu is typically much more severe. Last year, the flu situation in Hong Kong was particularly concerning, with hundreds of people needing ICU admission, and over half of those cases resulting in death. Tragically, some young children also lost their lives to the flu, reminding us of the importance of taking action early to protect ourselves and those around us.

Flu vs. Common Cold: What's the Difference?

Flu symptoms are generally more severe, including high fever, muscle aches, extreme fatigue and intense coughing. The most worrying is that the flu can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, which can be fatal, particularly for the elderly, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses. In contrast, the common cold usually presents with milder symptoms and carries far fewer risks of complications.

The Latest Flu Vaccine: Your Best Protection

Each year the World Health Organization (WHO) analyzes the latest strains of the flu virus and recommends the composition of the flu vaccine to provide the best possible protection.

When is the Best Time to Get a Jab?

The best time to get vaccinated is before the peak flu season. In Hong Kong, flu season typically occurs in the winter (January to April) and summer (July to August). However, following the COVID-19 pandemic, flu cases have become more unpredictable and remain at higher levels. Since it takes about two weeks for your body to build up enough antibodies to offer optimal protection, getting the latest flu vaccine as early as possible is crucial.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months, including healthy adults. It is particularly important for those at high risk of severe flu complications, such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses. Individuals who live or work with high-risk groups should also get vaccinated to help protect themselves and others.

Is the Flu Vaccine Safe?

The flu vaccine has been widely used for many years and is very safe. The most common side effect is mild pain at the injection site. Some people may experience mild flu-like symptoms or a low-grade fever within 1-2 days after vaccination, but these usually resolve on their own. Serious side effects are extremely rare, occurring at a rate of about one in a million. On the other hand, the risk of complications from contracting the flu is much higher.

Now available at Shoebill: Get the 2024/25 Abbott Influvac Tetra flu vaccine for a special price of $260 $220.

We also offer free seasonal flu vaccines to eligible Hong Kong residents, including children aged 6 months to 18 years and adults aged 50 years and older. For details and the start date of the vaccination subsidy program, please refer to the Centre for Health Protection’s website.

Take action now - get your flu jab and protect yourself and your loved ones!