Ulyanovsk infectious disease specialist explained whether to fear the plague and when to get vaccinated against the flu

October remains one of the best months for flu vaccination. Acting chief freelance specialist on infectious diseases of the Ministry of Health of the Ulyanovsk region Yana Saranskaya explained to whom the vaccination is especially important, and also assessed the risk of another dangerous infection - plague.

Immunity after influenza vaccination is formed in about two to three weeks, so it is advisable to vaccinate before the seasonal increase in incidence. The optimal period, the specialist called September and October, the most late – November.

First of all, vaccination is recommended for children from six months, pregnant women, people over 60 years old, patients with chronic diseases, schoolchildren and students, as well as representatives of professions that involve constant contact with people. For risk groups, the vaccine is available free of charge at the clinic at the place of residence.

Influenza viruses are constantly changing, and the composition of the vaccine is updated annually according to the recommendations of the World Health Organization. All three strains have been completely replaced this season. In addition, the protection after vaccination is not infinite, and by the next season the level of antibodies decreases.

At the same time, the vaccines used in the national calendar do not contain a live virus, so you can not get the flu directly from the vaccine.

As for the plague, for residents of the Ulyanovsk region, the probability of infection is extremely low. Natural foci of infection are located in other regions of the country. The greatest attention to safety measures is required for those who go to such areas: there should not be contact with wild and fallen animals, and when returning, you should pay attention to your health.

When infected, the disease can begin with a temperature of 39 degrees and above, chills, weakness, headache and muscle pain. The incubation period usually takes two to six days. If such symptoms appear after a trip to an endemic region, you should seek medical help and tell the doctor where the person was.