Influenza Vaccine: Who Should Get It and Why It Matters

Influenza, also known as the common flu, is a contagious respiratory virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Most people recover from flu after a few days of rest, but symptoms can sometimes interfere with daily life or lead to more serious complications in certain situations. Because the flu spreads easily, especially in shared environments, it remains a seasonal concern in many parts of the world.

In Singapore, the flu jab plays a role in helping to reduce the spread and impact of flu across communities. It lowers the chances of falling ill and also helps protect others by limiting transmission in places such as homes, schools, and workplaces. This added layer of protection can be especially valuable for people who might be more vulnerable to complications caused by the flu virus.

As with any vaccination, understanding how vaccines work and what they offer is the first step in making a confident, well-informed decision.

How the Influenza Vaccine Works

The influenza vaccine helps your body build defences against the flu virus. It introduces inactivated or weakened components of the virus, which safely trigger your immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies remain on alert, ready to defend against the virus if it enters your system.

Because influenza viruses undergo regular genetic changes, global health experts monitor their evolution to identify strains likely to circulate each season. Based on this surveillance, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a set of strains to be included in each season’s vaccine. Most influenza vaccines used in Singapore are quadrivalent, offering protection against two influenza A strains and two influenza B strains.

This constant evolution of the virus, along with the gradual decline in immunity over time, is why getting your annual flu shot is important. While vaccination is suitable for most people, it can be particularly important for those at higher risk of complications. Understanding who benefits most from the flu jab can help guide decisions around timing and need.

When and How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?

In temperate countries, influenza tends to surge during the colder months, which allows health systems to anticipate a defined flu season. In Singapore, however, no such seasonal pattern exists. Flu viruses might circulate at any time of year, driven by factors such as international travel, climate conditions, and population movement. This makes timely vaccination an important part of year-round protection.

To stay ahead of changing risks, flu vaccines are reviewed and released twice a year. The Southern Hemisphere version typically becomes available in the second quarter, followed by the Northern Hemisphere version in the fourth. Each release reflects the most recent influenza A and B strains identified through ongoing global surveillance efforts coordinated by the WHO.

Because immunity can decline over time and flu strains continue to shift, the Ministry of Health (MOH) advises annual influenza vaccination as part of preventive care. Keeping up to date strengthens your own protection and helps reduce the spread of infection, especially to those more vulnerable.

What to Expect After the Influenza Vaccine

Following a flu jab, it is common to experience mild effects such as soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, body aches, or fatigue. These responses typically appear within a day and subside within one to two days. Though briefly uncomfortable, they reflect your immune system’s early response as it begins to build protection.

Rather than causing illness, the influenza vaccine prompts your body to prepare for future encounters with the flu virus. This temporary reaction helps your immune system recognise and respond more effectively if you are exposed to the virus later on. Compared to the potential complications of an actual infection, these symptoms are minor and short-lived. For most people, this brief recovery period is a small trade-off for stronger protection and peace of mind through the flu season.

Book Your Flu Vaccination at Healthway Medical Today

Protecting yourself against the flu goes beyond avoiding discomfort. For many individuals, especially those who are at higher risk, a timely vaccination can help prevent serious illness and limit the spread of infection in everyday settings like homes, workplaces, and schools. It is also an important way to contribute to community health and reduce strain on healthcare services during peak periods.

To make it convenient, Healthway Medical offers flu vaccinations at our network of GP clinics across Singapore. As vaccine availability might vary by location, we recommend calling your preferred clinic in advance to check stock and schedule your appointment.

Getting vaccinated is a simple but important step. Book your flu jab today to protect your health, safeguard those around you, and stay one step ahead of the flu.