Flu protection at the health department: Get vaccinated now!

Flu protection at the health department: Get vaccinated now!

In the cold season, an important prophylactic measure comes into focus: the flu vaccination. The health department of the Oberspreewald-Lausitz district offers a series of vaccinations in Senftenberg that are of great importance for both the general population and certain risk groups. The vaccinations take place at Großenhainer Straße 62, on the 2nd floor, directly opposite the BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg.

The Vaccination consultation takes place at the following times:

• Dienstag: 13 bis 17 Uhr
• Donnerstag: 13 bis 16.30 Uhr

In order to better plan the number of vaccination doses required, prior registration is required. This can be done by phone at 03573 870-4342, by email or using the registration form on the health department website.

Vaccination for risk groups

The flu vaccination is offered free of charge in various doctor's practices - be it general medicine, internal medicine or pediatric practices. The STIKO, the Standing Vaccination Commission, recommends the flu vaccination especially for:

• Personen ab 60 Jahren
• Schwangere
• Chronisch Kranke
• Bewohner von Pflegeeinrichtungen

The ideal period for vaccination is from October to mid-December. Since vaccination protection is developed around 10 to 14 days after vaccination, it makes sense not to wait until shortly before the onset of winter. However, vaccination remains relevant after mid-December, as the number of influenza infections usually increases until the end of March.

Different types of colds

But what exactly is the flu and how does it differ from the common cold? The term “flu” is often used misleadingly in everyday life. In fact, the real flu is caused by influenza viruses and typically presents with symptoms such as sudden feeling of illness, high fever, sore throat and extreme weakness. In contrast, colds involve a variety of pathogens and cause milder symptoms such as a sore throat and runny nose, which often require no better treatment than rest and some home remedies.

According to information from Infection Protection.de Complications of the real flu can occur, which are particularly dangerous for people with previous illnesses, pregnant women and seniors. A common complication is, for example, pneumonia, which in the worst case can require inpatient treatment.

Transmission and risk groups

Risk groups such as older people and people with chronic illnesses are particularly in need of protection. Infection can be dangerous not only for the person affected, but also for those around them. If everything goes smoothly, vaccinations will help protect the health of the community.

Additionally warns RKI.de for vigilance, especially with regard to possible co-infections with novel viruses, which, in the worst case, can lead to influenza pandemics through genetic reassortment. Therefore, it is ultimately in our own interest to get vaccinated against the flu - not only for ourselves, but also to protect others!

The websites mentioned are available for further information and vaccination recommendations. Take advantage of the opportunity and ensure yourself and your loved ones the best possible protection against the flu this season!