Health Protection Agency (HPA) has recommended citizens to take Influenza vaccine as Influenza cases may be increasing in Maldives.
HPA states it is important to take vaccines to prevent the spread of influenza especially for those who have a high risk of catching the virus, including children, pregnant woman and senior citizens. The agency highlighted the importance to follow the safety guidelines, including covering mouth while sneezing, staying hygienic and distancing from crowded areas.
Influenza vaccine must be taken yearly. A new version of the vaccine is developed twice a year, as the influenza virus rapidly changes.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infectious disease caused by an influenza virus. Symptoms can be mild to severe including high fever, runny nose, sore throat, muscle pains, headache, coughing, sneezing, and feeling tired.