Editor:
Presscouncil City of Chemnitz
Pressrelease: 617

Time for flu protection

Health department vaccinates against influenza again - offer at Am Rathaus 8 from Tuesday, 16 October

Autumn is also the time to get vaccinated against flu. That's why, in addition to GPs and company doctors, the Chemnitz City Health Department is also offering vaccinations. This opportunity will be available from Tuesday, 16 October 2012 at Am Rathaus 8: vaccinations against influenza will be given on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 2 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. in room 240.

How to recognise a viral flu: A harmless cold can be distinguished from a dangerous viral flu by a severe feeling of illness with headaches and aching limbs. Unlike an upper respiratory tract infection with a cough, runny nose and sore throat, influenza is triggered by viruses that are capable of making changes. Fever and chills occur suddenly. Complications such as inflammation of the middle ear, lungs and heart muscle are feared. Involvement of the central nervous system can also lead to toxic circulatory failure.

How to protect yourself: You should avoid crowds and direct contact with sick people. Vaccination is still the most effective means of protection against viral flu. Immunisation must be repeated annually, as influenza viruses change and the vaccine must always be adapted.

When should you get vaccinated against influenza: It makes sense to get vaccinated against viral flu from mid-October, before the typical wave of colds. This is because the experience of doctors and health authorities shows that the first cases of influenza usually occur at the end of the year and the flu season shifts further and further into the first quarter of the following year. Vaccination protection builds up within 14 days to four weeks and remains effective for six months.

Get your body fit: With a regular daily routine and a healthy alternation of activity and rest, plenty of exercise in the fresh air, a diet rich in vitamins and fibre and sufficient fluid intake, you can strengthen your immune system and thus generally protect yourself against infections.