Flu vaccine supplies in Indonesia are now running low because many people believe that giving this vaccine can prevent infection with the Corona virus or COVID-19. The question is, is it true that the flu vaccine can prevent the Corona virus attack? So that you are not mistaken, see the following article.
At first glance, the symptoms of Corona virus infection look similar to flu symptoms. However, this does not mean that the flu vaccine is also effective in preventing the Corona virus. The reason is, these two diseases are caused by different types of viruses so they require different vaccines to prevent them.
The Benefits of Giving the Flu Vaccine for the Corona Virus
The flu vaccine is designed to lower the risk of infection with the virus that causes seasonal flu, not for infection with the Corona virus or COVID-19. Even so, at least giving this vaccine is able to reduce the risk of severe symptoms of Corona virus infection. Why is that so?
Symptoms caused by the Corona virus can vary from mild to severe and lead to death. The weaker a person's immune system is, the more likely it is that the symptoms of COVID-19 will become severe.
If a person has the flu, his immune system will be weaker than when he was in good health. If at the same time the person is infected with the Corona virus, his body's ability to ward off this virus is reduced and the infection can progress to severe.
So, the flu vaccine may be given to adults and children, but keep in mind, this vaccine cannot protect someone from Corona virus infection. The COVID-19 prevention measures recommended by the Indonesian government and the World Health Organization (WHO) are more effective at protecting you from the Corona virus than giving the flu vaccine.
Corona Virus Infection Prevention Steps
Until now, there is no vaccine to prevent Corona virus infection. Researchers are still in a race against time to develop a vaccine so that the COVID-19 pandemic can be resolved soon.
Since the COVID-19 vaccine is still not available, you need to protect yourself well to avoid infection with this virus. Preventive steps you can take are:
1. Increase endurance
A strong immune system can protect you from various diseases, including COVID-19. To maintain and increase endurance, eat healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruit, fish, and lean meats.
In addition, you are also advised to exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and stay away from cigarette smoke and alcoholic beverages. You can also take vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your doctor, especially if the intake of nutrients from food alone is not enough.
2. Wash your hands properly
Washing hands properly is an effective way to prevent the spread of the Corona virus. It is recommended that you wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If you're on a trip and it's hard to find soap and water, clean your hands with hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol to kill germs.
3. Keep your distance from other people
You are also advised to do social distancing by keeping a distance of at least 1 meter from other people. In addition, as much as possible avoid crowds and reduce traveling outside the house if it is not too important. This action can prevent the spread of COVID-19.
4. Use a mask when sick
If you are sick, wear a mask. The use of masks can prevent the transmission of the Corona virus from person to person. The reason is, someone who has been infected with the Corona virus can transmit this virus to others through splashes of saliva when coughing or sneezing.
The flu vaccine for the Corona virus is not effective. Given that the Corona virus vaccine has not yet been found, it is recommended that you continue to take the above preventive steps. If you are sick, avoid going out of the house except to see a doctor.
If you have further questions regarding Corona virus infection, both in terms of symptoms and prevention, don't hesitate to contact us chat doctor directly in the Alodokter application. You can also make an appointment with a doctor at the hospital through this application.
