Kollum Residents Receive Annual Flu & Pneumococcal Vaccinations at Doctor DoumaS Practice
KOLLUM – Hundreds of Kollum residents received their annual flu and pneumococcal vaccinations at Doctor Douma’s practice on Thursday,October 23rd,as the practice opened its doors for a specially-decorated autumn vaccination day. The event, staffed by Doctor douma and three assistants, aimed to proactively protect the community against seasonal illnesses.
The annual vaccination campaign,running from mid-October through mid-November,is a key preventative measure against influenza – a contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious complications. Patients were offered a choice of fruit – apples, oranges, or bananas – following their injections.
This year’s vaccinations are particularly important for vulnerable populations. Individuals aged 60 and over are eligible, as are those under 60 with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung ailments, diabetes, kidney problems, and compromised immune systems.
The flu shot works by introducing neutralized components of predicted flu virus strains to the body, prompting the immune system to create antibodies. While the injection itself won’t cause illness, it takes approximately two weeks for sufficient antibody production to occur. Once protected, exposure to matching flu viruses will be neutralized by these antibodies, reducing the risk of infection or lessening the severity of symptoms. protection typically lasts around six months.
“As the flu virus is constantly changing, the vaccine is adjusted every year,” explains health officials. “This allows the body to produce new antibodies annually, targeting the strains experts predict will be most prevalent in the coming winter.”
Individuals identified as “risk groups” will be contacted directly for at-home vaccinations and will have the cost of the injection reimbursed. Those not in a risk group are responsible for the vaccination costs.
The annual flu shot is recommended by health professionals due to the virus’s constant evolution,making yearly vaccination the most effective defense against seasonal influenza.
Source: RTV NOF | Business Beerstra
