American Expatriate Costa Rica

Is it the right time to be vaccinated against Influenza?

The country is facing a new increase in respiratory infections and those who have been vaccinated can cañm down.

But if a person is not vaccinated, he could still get vaccinated, but he will not be able to get the body completely-protected against these viruses, as informed by Gustavo Lazo from the National Children’s Hospital (HNN).

Daniel Salas, Director of Health Surveillance from the Ministry of Health, said that whoever decides to get vaccinated now, should remember that the virus is already circulating and it may take 2 or 3 weeks so the body develops the defenses.As a result, it is possible to be exposed and get infected with Influenza.

Salas insisted that the population must implement extreme measures of protection against the contagions:

-Hand Washing with soap and water is vital: before eating, after going to the bathroom, and especially before touching your face.

-Never use the hands to cover when sneezing or coughing: A disposable tissue or the inside of the forearm should be used.

-People at high risk should take better care: avoid places where many people are concentrated, especially if it is already know that there is a person with Influenza.

The most important recommendation, given by the Atlanta CDC, is that everyone from 6 months old should be vaccinated once a year as soon as the vaccine is available.

The ideal time to get vaccinated is from April to August.

crhoy.com