Flu Vaccination: Side effects that need immediate attention

Lately, there has been a widespread surge in the number of flu cases globally. While the novel coronavirus continues to be a predominant disease, with the flu season here, matters have only worsened. Apart from urging people to get their COVID-19 vaccines, doctors and medical professionals have highlighted the importance of taking your flu vaccine shot.

Read more: Coronavirus: Can the flu and dengue case spike impact the third COVID wave?

Just like the COVID vaccines, flu shots also trigger certain side effects that are non life-threatening and are manageable. However, some people may develop post-vaccination symptoms that may call for immediate attention. That said, here's a look at what you can expect after a flu vaccination.

As compared to this year, flu cases during the 2020-2021 season was "unusually low", as per the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Apart from the nationwide lockdowns, quarantine policies and mask mandates, social distancing, immediate COVID testing, maintenance of proper hygiene, all played a crucial role in curbing the rise in the case numbers.

However, the tables have turned and both the SARs-COV-2 virus and the flu have become more rampant than ever. Some have even been experiencing the "worst cold ever." This according to experts can lead to a possible "twindemic", a leading concern all across the world. Given that people have become more relaxed and less vigilant, we could be witnessing a dangerous rise in flu cases in the coming days.

The flu season is here and we've all been concerned about the toll it could take on us, especially with COVID-19 still wreaking a lot of havoc in and around the world.

That said, getting yourself vaccinated has become more important than ever.

A lot of people have been wondering whether or not they can get their flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine together. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clarifies and says that it is absolutely safe to get both the vaccine doses around the same time, and that getting the two vaccines together does not pose any harm.

While usually people are advised to space out the vaccine shots, with COVID and flu vaccines, there is no need, as per experts.

Read more: Flu cases on the rise: What is the best time to get a flu shot? Who needs a flu vaccine and when?

The flu virus can affect us at any time. However, September-October is the period when it thrives and worsens, which is why it is also the best time to get your flu vaccines.

While wearing your masks, taking all precautionary measures, maintaining distance and proper hygiene, all contribute to keeping you safe, getting your flu shot is extremely necessary. With COVID-19 and the flu circulating at the same time, the possibilities of a potential third wave have only increased.

That said, the earlier you get your vaccine shot, the more protected you will be.

Considering flu vaccines trigger immune responses, it causes inflammation in the body, leading to certain side effects. It is the way your body tells you that the vaccine is doing its job. That said, here are some of the most common symptoms you can experience after a flu jab.

- Fever and chills

- Headache

- Pain at the injection site

- Nausea

- Body ache and joint pain

These side effects are easily manageable at home and will diminish over a day or two, causing no concern at all.

According to the CDC, some people may experience severe allergic reactions, which may need immediate medical attention.

- Shortness of breath

- Swelling around eyes and lips

- Pale skin

- Extreme fatigue and weakness

- Hives

- Wheezing

- Heart palpitations and dizziness

In case of the above mentioned side effects, act immediately and call your doctor.

Read more: After long COVID, 'long flu' can be possible too, finds study

Vaccine side effects are a common occurrence. Flu vaccines can trigger certain adverse reactions, which can be managed at home. However. severe side effects need professional help, but it is usually very rare.

If you're someone hesitant to get the vaccines, you must understand that side effects experienced from a flu vaccine far outweighs the risk of catching the virus itself.