Flu vaccine urged as winter nears

As the colder months approach, healthcare professionals are urging residents to take a simple yet powerful step to protect their health: get the annual influenza vaccine.

- Anne Mametja

Local general practitioner Dr Mabowa Makhomisane, a family physician and diabetologist, says the flu vaccine remains one of the most effective tools in preventive medicine. "The flu is often underestimated. Many people think of it as just a bad cold, but influenza can lead to severe complications, hospitalisation, and even death, particularly in vulnerable populations."

Makhomisane highlights that certain groups benefit most from vaccination. These include adults over 60, children under five, individuals with chronic conditions, pregnant women, and healthcare workers or caregivers.

"Vaccinating during pregnancy not only protects the mother but also provides immunity to the newborn in those first critical months of life," he said.

He also reassures the public that the vaccine is safe and cannot cause influenza. "At most, you might experience mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site or slight fatigue, but these are temporary and far less severe than the flu itself," he said.

Beyond individual protection, Makhomisane stresses the broader community benefit. "When more people are vaccinated, we reduce the overall spread of the virus - this is what we call herd protection. It helps protect those who cannot be vaccinated or who may not mount a strong immune response.