Every year, Switzerland has a nationwide flu vaccination day ahead of the winter season.
Last flu season an estimated 210,000 people came down with the illness, according to government figures.
On flu vaccination day – this year on 8 November – you can go to any participating pharmacy or doctor’s surgery without an appointment and get vaccinated for CHF 30, substantially less than the usual price of around CHF 65.
The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) recommends anyone over 6 months old get the vaccination, particularly people at risk, such as those with chronique illness. Healthy people in contact with such people are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated too. Healthy people wanting to reduce the likelihood of getting the flu are also encouraged.
When it gets cold we spend more time inside with others with the windows closed. Flu season is driven by this and lower temperatures, which increase virus survival rates.
The common cold, flu’s less severe cousin, is commonly believed to be triggered by catching a chill. This is untrue. Colds are caused by viruses, some of which survive better in the cold. The best way to avoid getting one is regular hand washing and taking good care of your immune system by eating well, exercising, sleeping enough and managing stress.
Switzerland’s vaccination programme is organised by the Association of front line doctors.
More on this:
Vaccination information website (in French) – Take a 5 minute French test now
Swiss government press release (in French)
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