Protect yourself from influenza – the department will pay for inoculations for department employees

You can go to the Kumpula healthcare centre (Mehiläinen, ground floor of Exactum) on TUESDAY 30 OCTOBER AT 12.30-14.30 for the shot. This appointment time is reserved exclusively for inoculations, so you do not need to make an appointment.

If you want to see the nurse, you can make an appointment for a 15-minute visit, phone 010 414 0666 http://www.mehilainen.fi/  direct to the Kumpula office: phone: (09) 1915 1117

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What is seasonal influenza?

Seasonal influenza is an infection of the airways, caused by a virus. It is easily transmitted through e.g. coughing or sneezing. It can also be transmitted through direct contact. The symptoms of seasonal influenza include a quickly rising, high fever, strong muscular pain, cold shivers, fatigue, headache, nausea, and severe coughing. Since the influenza is a viral disease, antibiotics do not affect it. Seasonal influenza is not the same as the flu or a cold in the nose. For healthy adults, the seasonal influenza often brings a high fever, but it can be treated at home. However, some people have a higher risk of developing a more severe condition that may even lead to hospitalisation.
A simple way to ward off the influenza is to wash your hands often, not just after visiting the toilet but before eating and after blowing your nose or going outside. You should also avoid touching your face with your fingers, since that is how the virus can easily access the mucous membranes of your airways. You can avoid infecting others by coughing away from other people, into a disposable handkerchief or your sleeve.
Why take the inoculation?

The shot is the best protection against the influenza. Most people who have been inoculated avoid the influenza altogether. If they do develop influenza, it is usually milder and more quickly cured. The vaccine for the 2012-2013 influenza season also protects against swine flu. The protection is formed in around two weeks. Last year’s seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect you against this year’s seasonal influenza.
The seasonal influenza vaccine is safe

Studies have shown that the seasonal influenza vaccine is safe. After inoculation, the site may be red and sore. Some people experience muscle and joint pain, headaches or a slight fever. These symptoms should pass within a few days with the help of fever and pain medicines. Other side effects are rare. The vaccine does not contain live viruses, so you cannot develop influenza from it. However, the seasonal influenza shot only protects you from influenza.. It does not protect you from the flu or other infections of the airways.
Is the seasonal influenza shot suitable for everyone?

The vaccine is suited for most people. If you are very allergic to eggs, or you had an allergic reaction to the previous inoculation, you should discuss taking the vaccine with a nurse or a doctor. If you have a fever, you should not take the shot. You can get it after the fever is gone.

Kari Mäkelä
Head doctor of occupational health
Mehiläinen