Supporting Joint Joint Health with a Knee Brace in Calgary

Knee pain and discomfort can significantly impact your quality of life, limiting your mobility and affecting your daily activities. Whether you experience knee pain due to an injury, arthritis, or overuse, knee braces can provide valuable support and relief. Knee braces are orthopedic devices designed to stabilize and protect the knee joint, reducing pain and promoting joint health.

Ascertain the general benefits of a knee brace in Calgary and how they can support joint health and improve your overall well-being.

1. Providing Stability

Knee braces are specifically designed to provide stability to the knee joint. They help prevent excessive movements that can further aggravate the condition or cause additional injuries. By stabilizing the knee, braces reduce the risk of sudden twists or awkward movements that can lead to pain and discomfort. This added stability is especially beneficial for individuals with weakened or injured knee ligaments, such as those who have experienced anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears or strains.

2. Reducing Pain and Discomfort

One of the primary benefits of using knee braces is pain relief. Knee pain can stem from various causes, including arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and minor injuries. Knee braces can help alleviate pain by providing compression, which helps reduce swelling and inflammation. Compression also stimulates blood flow, promoting the healing process and relieving discomfort.

3. Supporting Post-Injury Recovery

Knee braces play a crucial role in the post-injury recovery process. They are often prescribed by healthcare professionals to support the healing of various knee injuries, including ligament tears, meniscus injuries, and sprains. By immobilizing and protecting the injured area, knee braces allow the body’s natural healing mechanisms to work effectively, helping you regain strength and flexibility.

4. Managing Arthritis Symptoms

For individuals with knee arthritis, knee braces can be an essential tool for managing symptoms and improving joint health. Arthritis in the knee can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Knee braces designed specifically for arthritis can provide gentle compression and support, reducing pain and allowing for better mobility. They can also help distribute the load evenly across the knee joint, reducing the pressure on affected areas.

5. Preventing Overuse Injuries

Repetitive movements and overuse can strain the knee joint and lead to injuries. Athletes and individuals who engage in physically demanding activities can benefit from knee braces as a preventive measure. By providing support and stability, knee braces can reduce the risk of overuse injuries, such as runner’s knee and patellar tendonitis.

6. Improving Function and Mobility

Knee braces can significantly improve knee function and mobility, allowing individuals to participate in activities they might otherwise avoid due to pain or instability. By supporting the knee joint and providing relief from discomfort, knee braces empower individuals to lead a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.

7. Customized Support

Knee braces come in various types and designs to cater to different knee conditions and individual needs. Some common types of knee braces include:

Prophylactic braces: These braces are designed for preventive use, especially for athletes participating in sports that involve high-risk movements.
Functional braces: Functional braces are prescribed for individuals recovering from knee injuries to provide support during the healing process.
Unloader/offloader braces: These braces are used for individuals with arthritis to reduce pressure on the affected area and improve knee alignment.
Hinged braces: Hinged braces offer more significant support and stability for individuals with ligament injuries or post-surgical recovery.
Compression sleeves: Compression sleeves provide gentle compression to reduce swelling and inflammation in the knee joint.

Conclusion

A knee brace in Calgary is a valuable tool for supporting joint health and improving overall knee function. By providing stability, reducing pain, supporting post-injury recovery, managing arthritis symptoms, preventing overuse injuries, improving function and mobility, and offering customized support, knee braces can play a crucial role in enhancing your quality of life. If you are experiencing knee pain or discomfort, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable knee brace for your condition and needs. With the right knee brace, you can find relief from pain, protect your knee joint, and confidently engage in daily activities and physical pursuits.

Springborough Pharmasave is your health professionals committed to serving the Springborough community. Our pharmacy in SW Calgary will provide you with all the important services you need for your health, including healthcare advice and medical products. All our programs and services will be tailored to the needs of our consumers. We offer vaccinations, flu shots, breast pump rentals, and can act as your travel clinic in Calgary. Giving back to the community is a core value at Pharmasave, and we are proud of our work to help the Springborough community. Visit us at 104-30 Springborough Blvd, Southwest Calgary or call us on (403) 453-6113.

The Benefits of a Travel Clinic in Calgary SW

Travelling abroad is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with potential health risks that vary depending on the destination. Preparing for international travel involves more than just packing your bags; it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. A travel clinic in Calgary SW, or in any international location, often found in pharmacies, play a crucial role in assisting travellers with vaccinations, health advice, and necessary medications.

Ascertain the importance of travel clinics, the services they offer, and how they can help ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip abroad.

Understanding the Role of Travel Clinics

Travel clinics cater specifically to individuals planning to travel to foreign countries, where different health risks and diseases may be prevalent. These clinics are staffed with healthcare professionals who have expertise in travel medicine and are well-versed in the health risks associated with specific destinations. They provide valuable guidance on necessary vaccinations, preventive measures, and medical advice to ensure travellers are well-prepared and protected during their trip.

Vaccinations: A Vital Aspect of Travel Health

Vaccinations are a primary focus of travel clinics. Many countries have specific vaccination requirements for incoming travellers, and failure to meet these requirements can result in entry restrictions or quarantine. Travel clinics offer a comprehensive range of travel vaccinations, including those for common diseases like yellow fever, hepatitis, typhoid, and more. The healthcare professionals at travel clinics can advise travellers on which vaccinations are necessary based on their destination, travel itinerary, and individual health conditions.

Expert Health Advice and Preventive Measures

In addition to vaccinations, travel clinics provide expert health advice tailored to each traveller’s needs. They offer essential information on common travel-related health issues such as food and water safety, insect-borne illnesses, and altitude sickness. Travellers can receive guidance on how to prevent illnesses and how to address health concerns that may arise during their journey. By equipping travellers with knowledge and preventive measures, travel clinics empower individuals to make informed decisions and prioritize their health while abroad.

Prescriptions and Medications for Travel

In some cases, travellers may require prescription medications for specific health conditions or to manage potential health risks during their trip. Travel clinics can provide necessary medications and prescriptions, ensuring that travellers have access to their required treatments while away from home. Whether it’s for chronic conditions, motion sickness, or a traveller’s diarrhea, travel clinics can assist in obtaining the proper medications to keep travellers healthy and comfortable during their journey.

Specialized Travel Health Services

Depending on the destination and the traveller’s itinerary, certain countries may have additional health requirements, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test or other specific health certifications. Travel clinics can assist travellers in obtaining the necessary documentation and meeting the health regulations of their destination country. This specialized support ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, preventing any last-minute complications that may disrupt travel plans.

Convenience and Accessibility

The presence of travel clinics in pharmacies adds to the convenience and accessibility of travel health services. Many travellers find it easy to schedule an appointment or walk into a pharmacy for travel-related health consultations and vaccinations. With travel clinics conveniently located, travellers can receive the necessary health guidance without the need for separate visits to medical facilities, saving time and effort in the pre-travel preparation process.

Conclusion

Prioritizing health and safety while travelling abroad is essential to ensure a memorable and enjoyable journey. A travel clinic in Calgary SW, and internationally plays a vital role in assisting travellers with vaccinations, health advice, and necessary medications. With their expertise in travel medicine, these clinics provide travellers with essential information and preventive measures to protect against potential health risks. By obtaining the required vaccinations and medications, travellers can explore new destinations with peace of mind, knowing they are well-prepared for a healthy and rewarding travel experience. As a valuable resource for travel health, travel clinics at pharmacies offer convenience, accessibility, and expert care, making them a crucial aspect of any traveller’s pre-trip preparations.

Understanding the Benefits of a Compounding Pharmacy in Calgary

When it comes to healthcare, personalized treatment is crucial. Every individual has unique health needs, and sometimes, standard medications may not provide the ideal solution. This is where compounding pharmacies come in.

Learn all about the benefits of a compounding pharmacy in Calgary and how it offers customized medications tailored to meet individual needs.

What is a Compounding Pharmacy?

A compounding pharmacy is a specialized pharmacy that creates customized medications by combining different pharmaceutical ingredients in precise dosages and forms. These pharmacies work closely with healthcare providers to develop medications that are specific to each patient’s needs, taking into account factors such as allergies, dosage requirements, and preferred delivery methods.

Enhanced Medication Customization

One of the primary benefits of a compounding pharmacy is the ability to customize medications. Standard medications often come in limited dosage forms or strengths, which may not be suitable for all patients. Compounding pharmacies can formulate medications in various forms, including capsules, creams, gels, lozenges, suppositories, and even flavoured suspensions for pediatric patients. This level of customization ensures that patients receive medications that are easier to administer and more comfortable to use.

Allergy-Friendly Alternatives

Another advantage of compounding pharmacies is their ability to create allergy-friendly alternatives. Many commercially available medications contain fillers, preservatives, or dyes that can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. Compounding pharmacies can formulate medications without these allergens, making them a safer and more suitable option for patients with specific sensitivities or allergies.

Pediatric Medications

Children often pose unique challenges when it comes to medication administration. They may resist taking medications due to taste, texture, or difficulty swallowing pills. Compounding pharmacies can create customized pediatric medications in various flavours and forms that make them more palatable and easier to administer. This ensures that children receive the necessary medications without struggle or resistance.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment for individuals experiencing hormonal imbalances or menopause symptoms. However, not everyone responds the same way to standard HRT medications. Compounding pharmacies can prepare customized hormone formulations that match the specific needs of each patient. This personalized approach to HRT allows for more precise hormone balance, better symptom management, and improved overall well-being.

Dermatological Solutions

Compounding pharmacies play a significant role in dermatology by providing customized topical medications. These pharmacies can combine specific active ingredients to address various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. By tailoring the medication to the individual’s unique needs, compounding pharmacies offer effective treatment options that may not be available in commercially manufactured products.

Pain Management

Chronic pain conditions often require a tailored approach to medication. Compounding pharmacies can prepare specialized pain medications that combine multiple active ingredients in precise dosages. These compounded medications can be formulated as topical creams, transdermal patches, or oral capsules, providing targeted pain relief and minimizing potential side effects.

Conclusion

Compounding pharmacies in Calgary offer numerous benefits by providing customized medications tailored to individual needs. From enhanced medication customization and allergy-friendly alternatives to pediatric formulations, hormone replacement therapy, dermatological solutions, and pain management, compounding pharmacies play a vital role in meeting the unique requirements of patients. By working closely with healthcare providers, compounding pharmacies ensure that individuals receive medications that are safe, effective, and well-suited to their specific circumstances. If you’re seeking a more personalized approach to medication, consider consulting with a compounding pharmacy to explore the possibilities of customized medications.

Can I Get Flu Shots Calgary SW in the Summertime?

The flu shot, also known as the influenza vaccine, is a vital preventive measure to protect against seasonal influenza viruses. Many people wonder if it is possible to get flu shots in Calgary SW, during the summertime when flu season is months away.

Address and answer all the questions you have about the flu shot and ascertain information on the timing and benefits of receiving a flu shot during the summer.

Timing of the Flu

Shot Flu shots are typically administered in the fall, before the flu season begins, to ensure optimal protection throughout the season. The timing of the flu shot is based on the circulating strains of the influenza virus and the anticipated start of flu activity in a particular region. Healthcare providers and public health authorities determine the best time to start administering flu shots to ensure sufficient immunity is developed before flu viruses become widespread.

Availability of the Flu Shot

While the primary flu vaccination campaign usually takes place in the fall and winter months, flu shots are available year-round in many healthcare settings. This includes doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and clinics. Some individuals may have specific reasons for needing a flu shot during the summertime, such as if they are travelling to regions with different flu seasons or individuals with specific medical conditions. In such cases, it is possible to receive a flu shot during the summer months.

Special Circumstances

Certain individuals may be advised to receive the flu shot earlier, even during the summertime, due to specific circumstances. For example, individuals who have weakened immune systems, chronic health conditions, or are at higher risk of complications from the flu may be recommended to get vaccinated earlier than the general population. In these cases, healthcare providers may advise administering the flu shot during the summer to provide adequate protection before the flu season arrives.

Benefits of Early Vaccination

Receiving the flu shot early, even during the summer, can provide several benefits. Firstly, it ensures that individuals are protected as soon as flu activity begins in their area. Flu activity can start as early as October, so getting vaccinated ahead of time offers early protection. Secondly, it allows sufficient time for the body to develop immunity, as it takes approximately two weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection. Lastly, early vaccination can help reduce the risk of transmission and the potential for flu outbreaks in communities.

Yearly Vaccination

It is important to note that the influenza virus undergoes changes over time, resulting in different strains circulating each year. Therefore, it is recommended to receive a flu shot annually, regardless of the time of year. The flu shot is designed to provide protection against the most common strains of the influenza virus for that particular flu season. By getting vaccinated every year, individuals ensure they are protected against the latest strains and maintain their immunity.

Conclusion

While the primary flu vaccination campaign takes place in the fall and winter, it is possible to get a flu shot during the summertime. Flu shots in Calgary SW are available year-round, and there may be special circumstances where early vaccination is recommended, such as for individuals with specific medical conditions or those travelling to regions with different flu seasons. Early vaccination offers the benefits of early protection, sufficient time for immunity development, and reduced risk of flu transmission. Remember, yearly vaccination is essential to stay protected against the evolving strains of the influenza virus. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best timing for your flu shot based on your individual circumstances and recommendations from public health authorities.

Vaccinations in Calgary to Get Before Going on Vacation this Spring

As spring arrives, many people are looking forward to taking a vacation and enjoying some time away. However, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety while travelling. One crucial aspect of travel preparation is ensuring that you are up to date on necessary vaccinations in Calgary. Different destinations may pose specific health risks, so it’s essential to research and consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are recommended.

Here are some standard vaccinations to consider getting before you begin to embark on your annual springtime vacation.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

Before getting into specific vaccinations, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in travel medicine. They will assess your health history, destination, duration of stay, and planned activities to provide personalized recommendations. This consultation will ensure that you receive the appropriate vaccinations for your specific travel needs.

Routine Vaccinations

Make sure that you are up to date on routine vaccinations, regardless of your travel plans. These include vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), varicella (chickenpox), and influenza. Keeping up with routine vaccinations protects not only yourself but also the people you come into contact with during your vacation.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that spreads through contaminated food and water. If you are travelling to a region with inadequate sanitation or poor hygiene standards, it’s essential to consider getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The vaccine provides long-term protection and is typically given in two doses, with the second dose administered six months after the initial dose.

Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through contaminated food and water. When travelling to areas with limited access to safe food and water, a typhoid fever vaccination may be recommended. There are two types of vaccines available: an oral vaccine and an injectable vaccine. The oral vaccine requires multiple doses, while the injectable vaccine is a single dose.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a viral disease that is acquired through mosquito bites and can be prevalent in some areas of Africa and South America. Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry, and even if it’s not a requirement, getting vaccinated is highly recommended if you are travelling to a yellow fever-endemic area. The vaccine provides lifelong protection and is typically given as a single dose.

Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease prevalent in many tropical and subtropical regions. While there is no malaria vaccine available, it’s essential to take preventive measures, such as taking antimalarial medications prescribed by a healthcare professional and using mosquito repellents, bed nets, and appropriate clothing. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the necessary antimalarial medications based on your travel destination.

COVID-19 Vaccination

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is essential before travelling. Check the latest guidelines and recommendations from health authorities regarding COVID-19 vaccination requirements and protocols for your destination. Keep in mind that requirements may vary, including proof of vaccination, negative test results, or quarantine measures.

Conclusion

When planning your spring vacation, don’t overlook the importance of vaccinations in Calgary. Ensuring that you are up to date on routine vaccinations and receiving the recommended travel vaccines will help protect your health and prevent the spread of diseases. Consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in travel medicine to get personalized advice based on your travel plans and medical history. By taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and healthy vacation this spring.

Benefits of Compression Socks

Compression socks, also known as compression stockings, are specialized socks that provide graduated compression to the legs and feet. These socks have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people wearing them for various reasons. For those not informed about compression socks, what purpose they actually serve and the advantages they offer can seem difficult to ascertain.

Learn more about the benefits of compression socks in Calgary and how they can improve your overall health and well-being.

What are Compression Socks?

Compression socks are specially designed socks that apply pressure to the legs and feet, which helps improve blood flow and circulation. The socks are made from elastic materials that provide a snug fit, with the level of compression varying depending on the wearer’s needs. Compression socks are available in different lengths, from knee-high to thigh-high, and are made from a variety of materials, including nylon, spandex, and cotton.

Side view portrait of senior man with cap on his head, short pants and compression socks for varicose veins in park, reading a book while sitting in shadow on hat summer day. The Park is actually The Trail of Remembrance and Comradeship or Trail Along the Wire (PST) where the occupied Ljubljana was wired up in second world war.

Benefits of Compression Socks

Improved Circulation

One of the primary benefits of compression socks is improved circulation. The socks apply pressure to the legs, which helps push blood back up to the heart and improve the flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. This can help reduce swelling, fatigue, and discomfort in the legs and may even help prevent blood clots.

Reduced Swelling

Compression socks can also help reduce swelling in the legs, which is a common problem for many people, especially those who stand or sit for long periods of time. The pressure applied by the socks helps prevent fluid from accumulating in the legs and feet, which can lead to swelling and discomfort.

Improved Athletic Performance

Compression socks are often worn by athletes to improve their performance and help reduce the risk of injury. The compression provided by the socks helps improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles, which can help increase endurance and reduce muscle fatigue. Additionally, compression socks may help reduce the risk of muscle soreness and injury by providing support and stability to the muscles.

Reduced Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when blood clots form in the veins deep within the body. Compression socks can help reduce the risk of DVT by improving circulation and preventing blood from pooling in the legs. This is particularly important for people who are at high risk of developing DVT, such as those who have recently had surgery or who are on bed rest.

Improved Recovery Time

Compression socks in Calgary can also help improve recovery time after exercise or injury. The compression provided by the socks helps improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help speed up the healing process and reduce pain and discomfort.

Who Can Benefit from Compression Socks?

Compression socks can benefit a wide range of people, from athletes and travellers to those with medical conditions that affect circulation. Some specific groups of people who may benefit from compression socks include:

Athletes who want to improve their performance and reduce the risk of injury
Pregnant women who experience swelling in the legs and feet
People who stand or sit for long periods of time, such as nurses, teachers, and office workers
People with medical conditions that affect circulation, such as diabetes, varicose veins, and lymphedema
People who have recently had surgery and are at risk of developing DVT

Conclusion

Compression socks offer a wide range of benefits for people of all ages and lifestyles. From improved circulation and reduced swelling to improved athletic performance and reduced risk of DVT, compression socks are a versatile and effective tool for improving overall health and well-being. If you’re considering wearing compression socks, it’s important to choose the right level of compression and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions.

Vaccinations in Calgary and Your Winter Flu

When the temperature becomes colder and you more inclined to spend your time indoors to avoid the frigid weather outside, you also become more susceptible to getting a cold and flu. As our immune system becomes a bit more sensitive during the winter months, you’re more likely to contract the flu that is so easily spread. But why are cold and flu symptoms so much more common in the winter as opposed to other seasons? And what can improve your immune system during this season in addition to getting your vaccinations in Calgary?

Find out why cold and flu symptoms are common in winter, the science behind your seasonal winter and flu, and what you can do to minimize your chances of getting the cold and flu.

What causes cold and flu outbreaks during the winter season?

One of the main reasons why cold and flu outbreaks are more common during the winter months is that the cold weather weakens our immune systems. This makes us more susceptible to infection by the viruses that cause colds and flu. Additionally, the dry air that accompanies cold weather can dry out the mucous membranes in our noses and throats, making it easier for viruses to enter our bodies.

The link between seasonal changes and cold and flu outbreaks

Research has shown that seasonal changes can have a significant impact on our immune systems. One study found that the activity of certain immune cells, known as T cells, is reduced during the winter months. This means that our bodies are less able to fight off infections during this time. Other research has shown that cold weather can actually change the structure of the flu virus, making it more resistant to our immune systems.

How cold weather weakens the immune system

There are several ways in which cold weather can weaken our immune systems. For one, the cold weather can cause our blood vessels to constrict, reducing the flow of blood to our extremities. This can make it harder for immune cells to travel to the site of an infection. Additionally, the dry air that accompanies cold weather can dry out the mucous membranes in our noses and throats, making it easier for viruses to enter our bodies.

Prevention measures to avoid catching a cold or flu

The best way to avoid catching a cold or flu during the winter months is to take preventative measures. This includes washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home if you are feeling unwell. Additionally, you may want to consider getting flu shot vaccinations in Calgary, which will help protect you from the most common strains of the flu virus that change each year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the winter blues and cold and flu outbreaks are both common experiences during the colder months. By understanding the link between seasonal changes and our immune systems, we can take steps to protect ourselves and stay healthy. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the winter months without the worry of getting sick.

Your COVID Shot at Flu Shot Clinics in Calgary

After you have contracted a COVID-19 infection, you might wonder when you can get your first vaccine, a second dose, or a booster shot to better protect yourself from getting it again–which occurs more frequently than you think. Although some may believe that you’re immune to COVID-19 after fully recovering from it, such immunity is fleeting and will only give you an extra layer of protection for a few weeks to a couple of months at a time. To completely secure yourself from getting infected by COVID again, you should consider getting better protected by receiving a COVID vaccine and booster dose, but how long should you wait before getting the vaccine?

Find out everything you need to know about getting a vaccine from your local flu shot clinics in Calgary after your COVID infection recovery and the plethora of benefits from the vaccines and boosters.

Why you still need a vaccine after COVID recovery

After you have been infected with COVID and have fully recovered, there is a short period where you receive better immunity from contracting the infection again. This period of time only lasts a mere few weeks to a couple months before you’re liable to get COVID again. Because COVID infections are surging during periods of the year, and new variants begin to emerge, it is important to keep up with your COVID vaccinations to make sure you’re thoroughly protected from it. Every time you get reinfected with COVID, your chances of experiencing complications deriving from the infection, such as high blood pressure and chronic headaches, begins to increase, which can be avoided when getting your vaccines.

How long does immunity from COVID last?

Generally, immunity from COVID after you’ve been infected depends on certain factors, such as age and whether or not the individual infected already has a weakened immune system. But typically, immunity after COVID can last upwards of three months before it will wane, and you’ll become more at risk of contact with the infection again. For variants like some of the Omnicron sub-variants, immunity only extends to 30 days. The best way to receive well-rounded and long-lasting immunity from the virus is to obtain all your vaccines from your local flu shot clinics in Calgary.

How long should you wait to get vaccinated after recovery

Waiting times to get your vaccinations after you recover from COVID will ultimately vary from person to person. It remains a general point to wait until you’re fully recovered from COVID, your isolation period has ceased, and you’re no longer contagious to get a vaccination or booster. Other experts maintain that you should wait three months from when you recover to get the vaccine to receive the optimal immunity response. Though if your immune system is weakened or you are at an advanced age, it is best to get the COVID vaccine as soon as you fully recover.

Benefits

The benefits of getting the COVID vaccine are plenty as you can increase your chances of not getting any breakthrough infections, lower your risk of serious disease that stems from a COVID-19 infection, and you can do your part to halt the spread of a contagious virus such as COVID.

Flu shot clinics in Calgary and how the flu shot works

A flu shot is a type of vaccine that you need to receive each year when flu season inevitably emerges. But before you get yours this upcoming year, you might be wondering, what exactly is a flu shot? And how does it help prevent flu? CDC conducts studies to find out how effectively influenza or flu virus can shield against the flu. Although the VE or vaccine effectiveness tends to vary, recent reports show that the flu vaccine brings down the risk of illness by around 40 to 60 percent during the peak seasons of flu virus circulation.

Find out all the information you need to know before receiving your flu vaccine, including how it works, what mechanisms are involved, and its importance.

What’s the mechanism of the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine works by reviving a weakened or deactivated version of the influenza virus so that the body is trained to recognize the antigen protein present on the virus surface. As a result, the immune system is triggered to develop antibodies for combating the flu. This, in turn, creates a certain degree of immunity to help you come around when you face the real virus ever.

Once you receive your vaccine from any flu shot clinics in Calgary, it can take around two weeks to gain efficacy. This is the reason why experts suggest that you should get the vaccine during autumn, even before the flu season arrives. This brings the concern of what would happen if it’s already late autumn and you haven’t yet got your flu vaccine. Flu vaccines can be taken through March, and it’s better late than never when it comes to protecting the health of the individual as well as the community at large.

What goes into a flu vaccine?

Every year, health experts and researchers examine the strains of the flu virus that are going to be the most prevalent in the coming season, and the flu shot clinics in Calgary design the vaccine accordingly. Most common flu shots shield against the four variants of the virus, including the H1N1 and H3N2, classed as the influenza A virus and two influenza B viruses.

Typically, the shots are created from inactivated viruses indicating that the particles are developed in a culture and are devoid of the ability to trigger symptoms. Sometimes, the vaccine is also created from a recombinant virus that is artificially crafted. Therefore, it cannot cause any disease or reproduce.

The third option for creating flu shots is using living but weak viruses used for nasal spray vaccines. According to the experts, each of these versions is equally effective although the live virus is not given to people with a compromised immune system, certain medical conditions, and pregnant women.

What influences the effectiveness of the flu shot?

How well a flu shot is going to work can vary from one season to another. And the level of protection will also vary based on who is taking the shot. The two most significant factors in this regard are the traits of the person taking the shot and the level to which the vaccine matches the flu virus that’s spread across the community. In case there is no match between the flu virus spreading in the community and the flu shot being taken, then it will offer little to no protection against diseases.

Flu shots in Calgary: How long do they last?

The influenza (commonly referred to as the flu) is a respiratory illness that infects millions of people worldwide each year. As the fall and winter approach, marking the beginning of flu season, getting a flu shot will provide you with the protection you need and will allow you to avoid the hassle of getting sick. Each year, based on extensive scientific research and clinical trials, a new flu shot is developed to protect the general public against the newest flu strain. As COVID-19 spreads, protecting yourself against the flu has become more critical than ever, and you can receive your flu shot at clinics in Calgary. But as you acquire your vaccine this fall and winter, questions are bound to bubble to the surface surrounding how they protect you and how long they actually last.

Determine how long your flu shot vaccine will last this fall and winter and all the information you’ll want to know about its ability to protect your health.

Flu shot availability

It takes about six months for the flu shot to be developed by manufacturers and when they become available ultimately depends on when development has been completed. Shipments of the flu shot begin to be carried out within North America in mid to late summer, around late July or August. Healthcare providers and workers will start giving the general public their annual flu shots as they receive these shipments. Upon receiving the shot, it will take around two weeks for you to build immunity to protect you against the newest strain of influenza.

Getting the flu shot each year

As aforementioned, the influenza strain changes every year, and the previous year’s vial of flu shot will not protect you against the newest strain. Because a strain is so apt to change each year, a new flu shot is continuously in development, so your body can adjust and rebuild the number of antibodies that have decreased since you last received your flu shot.

Who should get it

According to Health Canada, anyone who is susceptible to feeling sick, particularly with COVID-19, should ensure they receive their flu shot. Those who can be particularly vulnerable to the flu can include the elderly, anyone working within the healthcare field, adults older than 50, children younger than 2, anyone with a chronic medical condition and weakened immune systems, and people who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Additionally, those who frequent a hospital for treatments like chemo should receive a flu shot, as should anyone that resides in a nursing facility.

When the flu shot starts working, and long does it last

Typically, the flu shot will begin to take effect after two weeks of receiving the initial injection. After that, you may experience minimal and very mild side effects, including tolerable aches and pains and a fever, but these side effects should only last a few days. The flu shot will offer you a barrier of protection against the newest spread of the influenza strain, but the flu shot’s effectiveness will begin to wane as the year progresses and a new strain emerges the following year. You can expect your newest flu shot to last you for the duration of the flu season you’re currently in, but once a new one begins within the next year, you’ll have to get another shot at a flu shot clinic in Calgary.