Earliest flu season in 15 years: why it’s time to get vaccinated

Flu season kicked off during the week of March 24, a full month ahead of last year and the earliest start since 2010, according to pneumonia surveillance in public hospitals.

While an early onset doesn’t necessarily mean a more severe season, it does underscore the importance of getting vaccinated now — especially for those at higher risk of serious illness.

The seasonal flu vaccine is available at public health clinics and through private healthcare providers, including general practitioners and pharmacies.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases has advised that while the flu vaccine works best when administered before the season begins, it’s still beneficial to get vaccinated now. Immunity takes about two weeks to build, and because flu viruses evolve and immunity fades over time, getting vaccinated each year is essential.

For most people, flu symptoms are mild and resolve in a few days. But for some, flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, or even death. Those most at risk include:

• Pregnant women
• People living with HIV
• Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, tuberculosis, kidney disease, or obesity
• Older adults (65 years and older)
• Children younger than 2 years

These groups are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible, and to seek medical care early if they develop flu symptoms.

In addition, healthcare workers are also encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their patients who may be at increased risk of having severe flu illness should they be infected.

The National Department of Health provides flu vaccination free of charge to healthcare workers, individuals aged 65 years and older, individuals with cardiovascular disease (including chronic heart disease, hypertension, or stroke), diabetes, chronic lung disease (including asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), immunosuppressive conditions (e.g. living with HIV and AIDS, or malignancy), as well as pregnant women.

To reduce the spread of flu in your community, remember to:

• Wash your hands often
• Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home if you are feeling unwell

If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve within 3 - 7 days, seek medical attention.

Clinicians are urged to consider flu when diagnosing patients with respiratory illness this season.