Influenza is a global condition that affects millions of people every year and is responsible for a large number of deaths and an even greater number of hospitalizations worldwide. This isn’t a condition where only third world countries experience fatalities where Australia experiences between 2500 – 3000 fatalities which is far greater than the average yearly road toll (around 1600-1700). This has really decreased from the original 5000 from a decade ago.

The emergence of better and even more effective Flu Vaccinations in Australia has had a direct impact in the reduction in the number of deaths and recorded illnesses in the general population. It’s been proven that residents who buy an Influenza vaccine have a greatly increased chance of making a full recovery from Flu related illnesses.

People are now educating themselves in the affects of Influenza, and are also exposing themselves to massive amounts of information due to the Internet and other methods of advanced communication. With so much tainted and incorrect information to sort through it is understandable that the average citizen finds it hard to find the truth. In order to become fully informed about Influenza and each effective preventive measure, it’s vital to become educated about the Flu and Flu vaccinations.

Here are some vital facts -

The Influenza Virus is the instigator of an infection caused by the flu (Three types: A, B, and C) and is extremely contagious. Its main method of spreading is from person to person by way of moisture droplets that contain the virus. It’s also spread by touching someone with the Flu or touching virus contaminated surfaces. For example; if you touch the same surface or touch an infected person, you increase the risk of contracting the Flu.

The Flu can and sometimes does cause death and is responsible for about 15,000 hospitalizations in Australia every year, particularly among risk groups. It’s estimated that there are about 1.2 million Australians under the age of 65 who run a high risk for contracting the Flu. Flu related illness or death is more apparent with people who suffer from chronic conditions and diseases, especially those who suffer a combination of heart and lung disease.

Flu symptoms include: High fever, sore throat, dry cough—sometimes severe, muscle aches, headaches, congested nasal passages, and extreme fatigue.
A low percentage of around 20 to 50 percent of people working the in health care industry really receive an annual Flu Vaccination despite the fact they are in the high risk range of spreading the disease. It’s a proven fact that getting Flu vaccinations every single year is the best means of Influenza prevention.

You can implement measures to protect you and your family with a small time, patience and research to become educated about the influenza Virus. Additionally, it’s vital to learn about and beware of the myths surrounding the Flu including the following: Influenza vaccines may really cause the Flu; and the Flu is never a serious illness—both of these statements are complete myth.