Our nurse from SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP) administering a flu shot for a patient.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious infection of the airway and lungs caused by influenza viruses and its symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, headache, and body aches (Source:
World Health Organization). Flu symptoms usually appear within two to three days of exposure to the virus and can last up to a week. The flu season typically peaks twice a year in Singapore, between May and July, and December and February. With dual threats from COVID-19 and influenza, it is more important than ever to be equipped with the right knowledge and take preventive measures to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy.
How Is Flu Transmitted?
Flu can spread in two primary ways:
1. From person to person when an infected individual expels droplets containing the virus into the air through actions like speaking, coughing, or sneezing
2. Through indirect contact, when a person touches a surface or object contaminated with the flu virus and subsequently touches their mouth, eyes, or nose
Protecting Yourself and Others Against the Flu
While everyone is susceptible to the flu, its impact is often underestimated, leading many to neglect protective measures. Severe cases of influenza can result in serious complications, including pneumonia (lung infection), myocarditis (heart inflammation), and meningitis (brain lining inflammation) (Source:
HealthHub). Preventing the flu is essential to protect an individual’s health and also to reduce the overall strain on healthcare resources.
So, how can you shield yourself from the flu? Here are some simple and effective tips.
• Get vaccinated: Take your annual flu vaccination. The flu vaccine contains strains of the virus expected to be prevalent for the season, significantly reducing the risk of flu infection and other associated complications.
• Practice good personal hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, which are easy entry points for virus.
• Avoid sharing food: Use a serving spoon when sharing food during meals. Refrain from sharing food and drinks directly with others.
• Wear a mask: Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and dispose the tissue immediately. If you are feeling unwell, wear a mask to reduce the risk of infecting others.
• Maintain social distance: Avoid close contact with people who are sick to minimise the risk of infection. Avoid crowded areas and stay home if you are feeling unwell.
• See a doctor: Seek medical advice early if you experience flu symptoms to reduce the risk of complications.
Flu Shot: Your Best Prevention for the Flu
Getting an annual flu vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself against the flu. Those who are at higher risk include:
• Children below 5 years old
• Adults 65 years and above
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with chronic conditions (e.g. heart and lung diseases, diabetes, liver and kidney failure)
• Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g. those undergoing cancer treatment)
In addition to these high-risk groups, it is also recommended that household members of those at risk, healthcare workers, and travellers receive the flu vaccine.
Flu Vaccination in Singapore
If you have yet to receive your flu vaccination, now is the time to do so! Flu vaccines are available at various locations, including polyclinics, CHAS GP clinics, hospitals, specialist clinics and nursing homes. Flu vaccination is highly subsidised at polyclinics and CHAS GP clinics for Singaporeans in the high-risk groups (Source:
HealthHub). Consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your suitability for vaccination.
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