Flu Vaccine, Pnuemococcal Vaccine and Shingles Vaccine

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in South Africa has recommended that everyone, and in particular those who are at high-risk of developing severe flu and flu-related complications, receive a Flu Vaccination ahead of the influenza season this year. 

High risk for flu and its complications

People 65 years or older, Pregnant women, people with:

  • Asthma
  • Bronchiectasis
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Chronic renal disease
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Diabetes (Types 1 and 2)
  • HIV

Flu Injections and COVID-19 

Since the FLU season and COVID-19 pandemic and its vaccination program are overlapping, the best time to get your flu vaccine is before the end of April, or as soon as the Flu Vaccine becomes available. Flu vaccination continues to offer benefits when given at any time during the flu season – March to September in South Africa. It takes the body about two weeks to develop antibodies against the flu virus.

The flu vaccine won’t protect you against COVID-19, but it will protect you against severe flu and flu-related complications which may require hospitalization. Flu vaccination has been proven to be the most effective way of reducing hospital admissions related to flu complications. 

The Pneumococcus Vaccine can reduce the number of bacterial secondary infections that can compound influenza especially in the elderly.

Studies show that while it’s rare to be infected with the COVID-19 virus and the flu virus at the same time, co-infection resulted in a higher risk of a more severe illness, often compounded by pneumonia, requiring longer hospital stays and, by some estimates, patients were twice as likely to die.

Have a flu vaccination every year

You may have had the flu vaccine before and think you don’t need to have it again but the strains of the flu virus vary every year. With strains and strengths of viruses changing, you should have the vaccine every year to remain protected.

If you’ve recently recovered from COVID-19, or any other illness, wait at least 10 days after you are symptom-free to get your flu shot.

There is no more important time than now for you to take extra preventive measures and precautions for the 2021 flu season.

Manor Medical Vitality Wellness Centre for your Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines

  • COVID-19 safety measures in place
  • Drive through flu shot/ pneumonia days will be held
  • Drive through (individual) for flu shot/ pneumonia if not able come upstairs into the center
  • Callout (extra cost) home or office for flu shot/ pneumonia
  • The 2021 FLU 4 strain vaccine has still to be made available

Flu vaccines – availability will be limited. Book your vaccine now.
The 2021 flu vaccine register is open; add your name. You will be advised when the flu vaccines are available.

Contact Sr Christine
010 072 5999 or 082 771 2402
vitality@docsa.co.za

Pnuemococcal and Shingles Vaccine Available (booking essential)

Book with Sr Carol – Manor medical Travel Clinic
011 797 6901
travel@docsa.co.za

Vaccinations and /or professional fees are payable on administration and then claimed from medical aid for refund where applicable.

Vitality points can be earned for Flu, Shingles and Pneumonia vaccinations (subject to Discovery rules).

Published on March 4, 2021