Only 12% of South Africans get vaccinated — so is it worth it? Here’s a science-backed look at both sides to help you decide.
As winter tightens its grip and sniffles spread through schools, offices and WhatsApp groups, the flu vaccine question pops up again — and for many South African moms, it’s not a simple yes or no. According to the NCID, flu season officially kicked off on 24 March, 34% earlier than usual. Typically running from late April to mid-June, this period usually sees an eightfold increase in flu and cold cases. This year’s strain seems to be hitting working-age adults and children under 10 especially hard.
The Case For: Reducing Risk
Each year, scientists from the World Health Organisation track flu strains worldwide and formulate a vaccine to match the season’s most likely culprits. According to the CDC, a well-matched flu vaccine can reduce illness by 40–60% — not perfect, but a big improvement compared to no protection.
“For vulnerable groups like young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions, the flu vaccine can be the difference between a few days off work and serious complications,” says Tania Joffe, founder of digital health platform Unu Health.
In South Africa, thousands are hospitalised annually with flu-related illnesses. The NICD recommends that everyone over six months old, especially high-risk individuals, get the vaccine.
And no, you can’t get the flu from the vaccine itself. It uses inactivated virus particles, which train your immune system without infecting you.
The Case Against: Natural Immunity and Efficacy Concerns
Critics argue that the flu shot’s effectiveness varies, as the virus mutates rapidly and vaccines must be updated every year, sometimes missing the dominant strain.
“Some people choose not to vaccinate because they feel healthy, rarely get sick, and prefer to rely on their natural immune systems,” says Joffe. Others worry about side effects or the cumulative impact of multiple vaccines.
For most healthy adults and children, flu symptoms are manageable with rest and home care. Natural health advocates also highlight building immunity through a good diet, supplements and healthy habits rather than annual vaccines.
So, What’s the Best Decision?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
“It’s about informed choice,” says Joffe. “Our role at Unu Health is to equip you with clear, science-based information, not to push a decision. If you’re unsure, chat to a healthcare provider who knows your personal health story.”
If you choose to vaccinate, do it early — it takes about two weeks for full immunity to kick in. The 2025 flu vaccines are already available through most GPs, clinics, and pharmacies across South Africa.
And if you decide against it? Focus on supporting your immunity, staying home when sick, and protecting vulnerable loved ones.
Flu season is here. The vaccine is available. The decision? It’s yours.
For more family-friendly health facts, visit www.unuhealth.org.
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