Infectious Diseases

Seasonal Flu: Vaccinate the Right People

Annual flu vaccination reduces hospitalisation, especially for older adults and pregnant women.

Healthlife Editorial Team

Medical writers

6 min read
Medical illustration of Seasonal Flu: Vaccinate the Right People

In simple terms

Annual flu vaccination reduces hospitalisation, especially for older adults and pregnant women.

What you need to remember

  • At-risk groupsOver 65, chronic disease, pregnancy, immunosuppression, healthcare workers.

Sudden high fever, muscle pain, cough, and exhaustion in winter are typical.

At-risk groups

Over 65, chronic disease, pregnancy, immunosuppression, healthcare workers.

Antivirals (oseltamivir) work best within 48 hours of symptom onset in high-risk patients.

The words explained

Medical terms used above, in everyday language.

Chronic
A problem that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and often comes back.
Symptom
A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
Immune system
Your body's defence team: cells that fight germs and repair damage.

When should you see a doctor?

  • Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
  • They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
  • You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
  • You already take medication and want to change anything about it.

This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Seasonal Flu: Vaccinate the Right People?
Annual flu vaccination reduces hospitalisation, especially for older adults and pregnant women.
What are the main symptoms or signs of Seasonal Flu: Vaccinate the Right People?
Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
When should you see a doctor for Seasonal Flu: Vaccinate the Right People?
See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.