Each year, as the southern hemisphere tips into autumn, our practice begins fielding the same quiet question: should I get the flu shot this year? For most patients, the answer is yes — and the reasons matter more than the ritual.
Influenza is not the common cold. It is a respiratory virus that, in a heavy season, can land otherwise healthy adults in bed for a week and put vulnerable patients in hospital. Children, pregnant women, anyone over 65, and patients managing chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or asthma are at higher risk of complications.
The flu vaccine reduces both your risk of catching influenza and the severity of the illness if you do.
The vaccine is reformulated each year to match the strains that circulating surveillance suggests will dominate the South African winter. That is why a single shot last autumn does not carry over — protection wanes, and the strains shift.
Who should consider the flu shot
- Children from 6 months of age
- Pregnant women, in any trimester
- Adults over 65
- Patients with chronic conditions: diabetes, asthma, COPD, heart disease, kidney disease, immune compromise
- Healthcare workers and anyone in close contact with the above
- Anyone who simply prefers not to spend a week of winter laid out by influenza
What to expect
The flu shot is a quick, in-room vaccination — no extended consultation needed. Mild arm soreness for a day or two is common; serious side effects are rare. Protection builds over roughly two weeks and lasts the season.
Cost and cover
At Cedar Family Med, the flu vaccine is R 224. Most medical aids cover it from preventive-care or wellness benefits — our reception team can confirm cover for your specific plan when you arrive, or before you book if you’d prefer to call ahead.
Flu vaccines are in stock at the practice. Walk in or book a quick appointment — we’ll have you in and out in fifteen minutes.