What should I pay attention to when getting a flu vaccine?
Mar 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
When receiving a flu vaccine, it is important to keep the injection site dry and clean, and to avoid contact with water. Additionally, avoid taking medications on your own, especially those that may interact with the vaccine components. If you have habits of smoking or drinking alcohol, it is advisable to make timely improvements and choose a light diet, avoiding spicy or stimulating foods. However, to ensure safety, it is recommended to receive the vaccine at a正规 hospital.
Generally speaking, "da" (打) refers to vaccination, and "liugan yimiao" (流感疫苗) refers to the influenza vaccine. After receiving an influenza vaccination, it is important to pay attention to local care, avoid misuse of medications, refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol, make dietary adjustments, and ensure proper observation and rest. Detailed recommendations are as follows:
1. Local Care
After receiving the influenza vaccine, it is important to keep the injection site dry and clean for a short period. The injection site should also avoid contact with water too soon to reduce the risk of infection. Do not take a bath on the day of vaccination and wait for 24 hours before doing so.
2. Avoid Misuse of Medications
Avoid taking medications on your own before and after receiving the influenza vaccine, especially medications that may interfere with the vaccine's components, such as immunosuppressants and corticosteroids. If your medical condition is severe, it is recommended to consult a doctor first and follow their instructions for medication use.
3. Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided before and after receiving the influenza vaccine. Cigarettes contain harmful substances, and alcohol may affect the effectiveness of the vaccine. Therefore, these should be strictly avoided.
4. Dietary Adjustments
After receiving the influenza vaccine, maintain a balanced diet. It is recommended to eat light meals and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan peppers, ginger, and green onions, as these may irritate the injection site and cause adverse reactions or affect the vaccine's effectiveness.
5. Observation and Rest
It is recommended to remain at the clinic for at least 30 minutes after vaccination to ensure there are no adverse reactions before leaving, allowing for prompt management if needed and reducing potential harm. After leaving the clinic, ensure appropriate rest and avoid excessive fatigue and staying up late.
It is important to note that, for safety reasons, it is recommended to receive the influenza vaccine at a正规 hospital. Additionally, maintaining a stable mindset and avoiding excessive anxiety is also advised.
