Influenza, or flu, is an acute respiratory infection in humans caused by seasonal influenza A and B viruses each year.

The symptoms of seasonal flu are often similar to symptoms of a cold but can be more severe. Those who become ill with flu might experience including sudden fever, a cough lasting more than two weeks, headaches, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, sore throat, and a runny nose.

Worryingly, seasonal flu can be life threatening in some cases. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and global health partners estimate that seasonal flu is a factor in between 290,000 and 650,000 deaths, annually.

The most effective way to prevent seasonal flu is to get a vaccine, and then a booster injection each year. This strategy is advisable for two reasons: the influenza virus develops new strains every year, and the body’s immune response to this virus tends to decrease after one year.

For protection against the flu, everyone aged six months or older should get a flu shot every year.

The WHO recommends that the following at-risk groups are vaccinated against seasonal flu as a priority:

• Pregnant women (as prescribed by an obstetrician)
• Children from six months to five years old
• Elderly people (over 65 years old)
• People with chronic diseases
• Medical staff

When to schedule a flu vaccine

Seasonal flu usually occurs year-round, but tends to spread most during autumn as the seasons change.

Families are encouraged to start their vaccinations before the beginning of February and October each year, which is typically two weeks to one month before the flu’s “high season”.

FV Hospital offers two types of vaccination that help protect against the Influenza A virus (H1N1, H3N2) and Influenza B virus:

• Influvac 0.5ml (made in the Netherlands) for adults and children
• Vaxigrip 0.5ml (made in France) for adults; Vaxigrip 0.25ml for children

Benefits of being vaccinated at FV Hospital:

• Our team of doctors and care providers are specialised in screening for all health issues.
• Before approving a child to receive a vaccination, doctors will prescribe immunisation regimens, follow-ups and general care
• All vaccinated clients are monitored for 30 minutes after vaccination, and their condition is re-evaluated before they leave the hospital
• The vaccination room is cool, clean and quiet
• FV uses high quality vaccines with clear provenance which are stored correctly from purchase through to transportation and use, ensuring that they are always safe and effective

How to register for your flu shot at FV Hospital

Customers can register directly at the General Practice Department and Paediatric Department for advice about vaccines and appointment referrals.

Once you have selected your shots, you will answer vaccination questionnaires, see your doctor, complete the billing process and go to the clinic.

Pregnant women must be assessed by an obstetrician, and be registered at FV’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Flu vaccines at FV Hospital are priced from 816,000 VND to 879,000 VND (inclusive of doctor consultation and vaccination fee).(*)

To book appointment, please contact:

General Practice Department – Hotline: (028) 5411 3333 – Ext: 1329

Pediatrics Department – Hotline: (028) 5411 3333 – Ext: 4433

(*) All prices are subject to change without prior notice