According to doctors, the flu season in Poland begins as early as November, with the peak number of cases occurring at the turn of February and March. This is when the greatest number of people take sick leave. However, some people ignore the flu, believing that it will go away on its own. Few people realize that untreated flu causes dangerous complications—pneumonia, bronchitis, inflammation of the meninges and spinal cord, and even inflammation of the heart muscle.
How can you protect yourself?
The most popular way to prevent the flu is through preventive vaccination. Studies show that 70–90 percent of vaccinated people develop a level of antibodies fighting flu viruses that protects them from becoming ill. However, it is important to get vaccinated in advance, at the beginning of the flu season, rather than when one is already infected. Getting vaccinated ahead of time is necessary because it takes about two weeks to produce natural antibodies that protect the body from flu viruses.
Who should get the vaccine?
Almost anyone can get vaccinated. Doctors recommend vaccination primarily for older people, those suffering from respiratory and kidney diseases, and children. The small group for whom vaccines are not recommended includes people allergic to chicken egg protein or other vaccine ingredients, people with chronic illnesses, and infants under 6 months of age.
Is it worth it?
The vaccine costs several dozen zlotys. This is certainly much less than one would have to pay for doctor visits, antibiotics and fever-reducing medication. It also saves the time lost in queues at the doctor’s office and pharmacy, as well as during compulsory sick leave. Vaccination is available at almost every ZOZ, as well as in hospitals and clinics.