How effective is flu vaccine?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

Consult Now

Every year, WHO studies the strains of influenza virus circulating globally and advise to produce the flu vaccine with those particular strains. Vaccine effectiveness may vary in relation to many factors globally but on a average, flu vaccination reduces the risk of influenza by 40 - 60 % among the overall population during seasons when most circulating flu viruses are well matched to the flu vaccine.

Answered 04/07/2025

Ask Apollo

AI powered Health Chatbot

Continue Chat

Effectiveness of the Inactivated Influenza Vaccine:
- The flu vaccine is generally effective in reducing the risk of flu infection and its complications, especially in healthy adults.
Variability of Effectiveness:
- Effectiveness can vary each year depending on how well the vaccine matches circulating flu strains.
Benefits Beyond Prevention:
- Even if the vaccine does not completely prevent the flu, it often reduces the severity and duration of illness.
Safety and Recommendations:
- The vaccine is safe for a healthy 30-year-old female and is recommended annually.
Additional Advice:
- Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to get vaccinated annually for best protection.

Recommended next steps

Consult a Infectious Disease specialist

Find a Infectious Disease specialist

Answered 20/08/2025

More General Physician/ Internal Medicine Health Queries

View all

What are side effects of melatonin?

Most common side effects include abdominal cramps, daytime fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, irritability and disruption in circadian rhythm (Sleep - wake cycle). Also, caution must be taken in the form of repeated monitorings when prescribed for persons with blood pressure, liver disorder and seizure disorder.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm having this persistent pain in my chest and ribs, and honestly, my whole body just feels sore ever since I got over COVID. I did see my local doctor about it, and they mentioned it might just be weakness and gave me some meds. But I'm still worried because I've had kidney stones before and I'm taking thyroid pills. Do you think this could be related? Should I get a second opinion or just wait it out?

take tablet zerodol

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm wondering how long I should wait before getting a tetanus shot. Is it risky if I don't get one soon? I'm really concerned about this and would really appreciate some advice.

After an injury, a tetanus injection should ideally be taken within 24 hours. However, if it has been more than 24 hours since the injury and you are unsure of your vaccination status, it is still recommended to get the injection as soon as possible. Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening if left untreated, so it is important not to ignore it. The standard tetanus vaccine is called Tdap, and the recommended dosage for adults is a single dose.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors