Al-Amn Magazine

of symptoms if infection occurs after vaccination, reducing the likelihood of hospitalization or serious complications. It also contributes to reducing the spread of community infections and protecting vulnerable groups. Despite the scientifically proven benefits, some people still hesitate to receive the vaccine due to misconceptions and beliefs, including: «The vaccine causes the flu.» This is incorrect, as the vaccine contains dead viruses or parts of the virus that cannot cause disease. «I don’t need the vaccine because I’m healthy.» This means that even healthy people can contract the flu and transmit it to others, and prevention is better than treatment. «The vaccine is ineffective.» The effectiveness of the vaccine varies from year to year, but it remains the best available means of prevention and reducing the severity of the disease. When to get the vaccine It is preferable to get the vaccine at the beginning of fall (September to November), before the infection spreads, as the body needs about two weeks to develop sufficient immunity against the virus. There are other preventive steps that must be taken in addition to the vaccine, most notably washing hands with soap and water regularly, avoiding touching the face after touching public surfaces, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, staying home when symptoms appear to avoid transmitting the infection, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet to boost immunity. Drinks to treat the flu There are a number of effective drinks to help treat colds and flu, in addition to taking medications. Mint protects its users from contracting the flu during the winter due to its antimicrobial properties, in addition to its immune-boosting effect. Chamomile and anise are among the herbs that contribute most to preventing the flu and alleviating symptoms, due to their richness in important nutrients that contribute to strengthening the immune system, including vitamins A and C. Green tea is distinguished by its great ability to prevent the flu due to its antioxidant content, which strengthens the immune system. Turmeric helps protect individuals from seasonal influenza, whether consumed as a beverage or added to food, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon enhances the body’s ability to combat viruses that lead to influenza due to its antioxidant content, which strengthens the immune system. Finally, seasonal influenza is not a simple disease in some cases, as some believe. Rather, it can be a real threat to public health, especially for those with chronic respiratory diseases and the elderly. Because prevention is the most powerful weapon, the seasonal vaccine represents an investment in your health and the health of those around you. So, let’s protect ourselves and our community by committing to annual vaccination and raising awareness about its importance as a safe and effective means of preventing influenza and its complications.