What is the flu?
The flu, also known as influenza, is a common acute respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It presents with symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, headaches, fatigue, runny nose, sore throat, and cough. Influenza in Singapore can cause mild to severe illness, and in some cases, it may lead to serious complications or even death.
There are different types of influenza viruses: Influenza A and Influenza B, which are seasonal and cause more severe symptoms and epidemics, while Influenza C is less common and typically causes milder symptoms.
In contrast, the common cold, often mistaken for the flu, is caused by other viruses such as rhinovirus and parainfluenza. While both share similar symptoms, the common cold usually results in milder symptoms and is less likely to lead to serious complications like pneumonia or hospitalization.
When is the Flu Season in Singapore?
Unlike temperate countries where flu season peaks during fall and winter, Singapore experiences influenza year-round due to its tropical climate. However, there are typically two peak seasons, occurring:
May to July
November to January
These coincide with school holidays, travel seasons, and wetter months, increasing transmission rates.
How Does the Flu Spread?
The flu spreads primarily through droplets when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. Touching contaminated surfaces or having direct contact with someone infected can also spread the virus.
In Singapore, people with the flu are most contagious 3–4 days after symptoms develop, with an incubation period of 1–4 days post-exposure.
What Complications Can Influenza Cause?
Without timely treatment, influenza can lead to serious complications, such as:
Lung infections (pneumonia)
Sinusitis and ear infections
Triggering of pre-existing or underlying conditions like asthma, COPD, and heart failure
Who is at Higher Risk of Flu Complications?
The following groups are at higher risk of severe flu complications:
Adults aged 65 years and older
Children aged 5 years and younger (especially below 2 years)
Pregnant individuals (all trimesters)
Children on long-term aspirin therapy
Individuals with chronic conditions, including pulmonary diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD), cardiovascular conditions (e.g., heart disease), diabetes, kidney or liver disease, neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, dementia), and those who are immunocompromised due to medications, organ transplants, or illnesses like HIV.
How is Influenza Diagnosed?
Diagnosing influenza can be challenging based on symptoms alone, as they overlap with other viral or bacterial illnesses.
At Oaklife Family Clinic, we use rapid influenza swab tests, similar to Covid-19 PCR tests, providing accurate results within 10–15 minutes. This allows for prompt diagnosis and tailored treatment.
How is the Flu Treated?
Flu treatment typically involves symptomatic relief, with adequate rest and hydration. The body's immune system usually fights off the virus, although it may take about 5-7 days for symptoms to subside.
For higher-risk patients, antiviral medications like Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) can be prescribed preferably within 48 hours of symptom onset. These medications can help lessen symptoms, speed up recovery by 1-2 days, and prevent complications like pneumonia.
How Can the Flu Be Prevented?
The most effective way to prevent influenza in Singapore is through annual flu vaccination. Singaporeans are eligible for government subsidies under the National Childhood and Adult Immunisation Schedules if they meet specific criteria. Refer to this MOH resource for more details.
For children, you can learn more about our vaccination offerings, including using the Child Development Account (CDA) or Baby Bonus cash gift to cover vaccination costs.
Additionally, wearing face masks, frequent handwashing, and avoiding touching your face, nose, and mouth can further reduce the spread of flu.
How can Oaklife Family Clinic help?
At Oaklife Family Clinic in Singapore, we provide comprehensive care for flu management, including:
Rapid Influenza Swab Tests: Accurate diagnosis within 10-15 minutes.
Tamiflu and Symptomatic Medications: For patients requiring treatment.
Flu Vaccinations: We offer flu vaccines for those who need them. As a CHAS-accredited clinic, we now provide government-subsidized flu vaccinations for eligible patients.
FAQs
1. How often should I get the flu vaccine in Singapore?
We recommend getting the flu vaccine annually to stay protected against new strains.
2. What should I do if I suspect I have the flu?
If you have flu symptoms, visit a clinic for a rapid influenza test and follow the doctor’s advice on treatment.
3. Are flu vaccinations subsidised in Singapore?
Yes, subsidies are available for Singaporeans under the National Immunisation Schedules.
4. When should children in Singapore get their flu vaccine?
Children aged 6 months and older are recommended to receive the flu vaccine annually. For children under 9 years receiving the flu vaccine for the first time, two doses spaced 4 weeks apart may be required.
5. Can I get the flu even after being vaccinated?
Yes, it’s possible to get the flu even after vaccination, but the symptoms are often less severe, and the risk of complications is significantly reduced. The flu vaccine also protects against the most common strains circulating each year.
6. Are flu vaccinations safe during pregnancy?
Yes, flu vaccines are safe and recommended during all trimesters of pregnancy. They protect both the pregnant individual and the baby from influenza complications.
7. Can children use CDA funds for flu vaccinations?
Yes, children in Singapore can use their Child Development Account (CDA) or Baby Bonus cash gift to cover the costs of flu vaccinations at CHAS-accredited clinics like Oaklife Family Clinic.
8. Can the flu trigger asthma symptoms in children?
Yes, the flu can exacerbate asthma symptoms in children. Early vaccination and proper asthma management can help minimise the risk of severe respiratory complications.
9. Is the flu vaccine mandatory in Singapore?
No, flu vaccination is not mandatory in Singapore but is highly recommended for high-risk groups, including young children, elderly adults, and individuals with chronic conditions.
Written by Dr Lim Chong Soon Daniel
References:
- Singapore MOH influenza vaccination circulars
Disclaimer: this article is written for educational purposes and does not substitute for medical diagnosis and treatment.