With flu season well underway, residents are advised to get vaccinated against the virus.
The City of Cape Town’s Health Department distributed 18 500 flu vaccines to the municipality’s clinics at the start of May.
The Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health MMC Patricia Van der Ross explained why it is essential to get the jab:
“The flu has been a hot topic in recent months. While most people can bounce back fairly quickly from a bout of flu, it does hold potentially serious complications for older persons or those with pre-existing conditions. So, if you are in one of the qualifying groups, present to your nearest clinic as soon as possible, to get your vaccination before stocks run out. We do have to remind the public that, just like any other vaccine, the flu vaccine will not prevent you from getting flu, but will likely ensure a far milder episode should you contract the virus,’ elaborated Van der Ross.
READ MORE: Top 10 ways to avoid the dreaded flu as winter approaches
The inoculation is free at City clinics.
VACCINATIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO SPECIFIC GROUPS, INCLUDING:
• healthcare workers
• persons 65 and older
• persons with cardiovascular disease (including chronic heart disease, hypertension, stroke and diabetes),
• those with chronic lung disease (including asthma; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Tuberculosis)
• individuals living with HIV/AIDS
• pregnant women
