Question
Does the influenza vaccine take effect immediately after injection? Does the type of influenza virus change every time? How can we effectively prevent influenza?
Answer
The influenza vaccine typically requires several days to two weeks to produce enough antibodies in the body to provide protection. Therefore, it does not take effect immediately after injection. After receiving the vaccine for the same type of influenza virus, the body will develop immunity and enhance its resistance. However, since the influenza virus often mutates, the strain of the virus that is prevalent each year may differ, so it cannot guarantee complete immunity against all influenza viruses. It is recommended to get vaccinated against the flu every year and combine this with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand washing, wearing masks, and maintaining good personal hygiene, to reduce the chance of getting influenza.