Even though COVID-19 has been a big part of our lives for over two years, the flu still exists. If it is intended to be benign for many, it is accompanied by the risk of serious complications for certain more vulnerable people. Hence the importance of protect yourself well.
How well do you know the flu? Find out by answering these 10 questions.
Quiz
#1.
TRUE. Among this number, 300 people die from it and about 90% of these deaths would occur in people aged 75 and over.
#2.
FAKE. In addition to people living with certain chronic illnesses, pregnant women and people aged 75 and over are also considered at risk of developing complications from the flu. Vaccination is therefore recommended for all these clienteles.
#3.
TRUE. To reduce the risk of contamination, it is also recommended that relatives who live under the same roof as more vulnerable people, including parents of children under 6 months of age, take advantage of the flu vaccination.
#4.
TRUE. It’s free for targeted clienteles and offered in all regions of Quebec. Eligible persons can make an appointment by consulting the website Québec.ca/vaccingrippe.
#5.
TRUE. Vaccination allows the body to make antibodies to fight the flu, but they may decline over the next year. Thus, to be well protected, people who are more at risk of developing complications should be vaccinated every year.
#6.
TRUE. Flu symptoms and their severity can vary depending on age and health. The most common symptoms associated with the flu are fever, cough, muscle aches and extreme fatigue.
#7.
FAKE. Although vaccination takes place in the fall, the flu circulates from late fall to early spring. The length of the flu season can vary. Thus, it can start more or less early and last more or less long depending on the year. It is therefore necessary to ensure that you are well protected before the onset of winter.
#8.
FAKE. The flu can be transmitted directly during a cough or a sneeze by droplets of nasal or oral secretions, but also indirectly by touching a hard surface (telephone, switch, joystick).
#9.
FAKE. Vaccination against COVID-19 should not be confused with that against the flu. Certain symptoms are similar, of course, but they are indeed two different viruses, which is why it is recommended that those affected receive both vaccines.
#10.
FAKE. It is even possible to receive the flu vaccine and the booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine during the same vaccination session.
If you are among those eligible for the free flu shot, you can schedule an appointment online at Quebec.ca/fluvaccineor by calling 1 877 644‐4545 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).