17/01/2023
The Ministry of Health responded to the most prominent rumors spread about seasonal influenza and its vaccine, stressing the importance of knowing the correct concepts about the disease in order to maintain health.
Top 5 rumors about influenza and its vaccine:
“The vaccine causes influenza.” It is true that the vaccine does not contain active viruses, so it cannot cause infection, but redness of the skin or a slight increase in temperature may occur, as it is part of the body’s immune response.
“Your immunity is good, you do not need a vaccine.” The truth is that everyone should take the vaccine to protect them from exposure to complications, and the vaccine is important to protect those around us from the most affected groups and not to transmit the infection to them.
“Pregnant women should not take the vaccine.” The fact is that pregnant women are among the most dangerous groups and are at risk of contracting the disease. Because their immunity is weaker than usual due to pregnancy, and the vaccine is considered safe at any stage of pregnancy.
“Taking antibiotics at the beginning of the infection speeds up recovery.” The fact is that antibiotics fight bacteria and influenza is caused by types of the virus, so it is not useful to take antibiotics when you have the flu.
“The flu is a simple disease that does not lead to complications.” It is true that there are several types of the virus that causes influenza, some of which may lead to serious complications.
