Flu vaccination remains essential—also in light of international case numbers
Internationally, the number of severe cases of influenza A/H3N2 is rising. Anyone who has not yet been vaccinated against the flu should do so now.
Reports are currently reaching us from Japan and several countries in Southeast Asia about an increased number of severe cases of illness caused by the influenza A/H3N2 virus. Experts at the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) point out that seasonal flu vaccination remains the key preventive measure against severe influenza virus infections. Citizens are therefore urged to get vaccinated promptly in accordance with the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO).
Analyses by international expert committees show that the newly described H3N2 clade “K,” a new genetic variant of the H3N2 influenza A virus, has mutated more than usual this year. Whether and to what extent this affects the effectiveness of the current vaccine components is currently being evaluated. Initial assessments indicate that vaccination is recommended this season, especially for protection against severe illness, even if the virus strain contained in the vaccine does not yet include the change that has occurred.
Vaccination remains the most reliable protection against severe flu infections
The seasonal vaccines also contain antigen components against influenza A/H1N1 and influenza B viruses, thus offering broad protection against several simultaneously circulating pathogens. Vaccination therefore remains the most reliable protection against severe influenza. DZIF expert Prof. Stephan Becker emphasizes: “A high vaccination rate is particularly important in years when a more intense wave of infection is looming in order to reduce severe cases of the disease and hospital admissions. This not only protects individuals, but also relieves the burden on the healthcare system as a whole.”
Epidemiological factors also support a consistent vaccination strategy against seasonal influenza viruses: In view of the continuing evidence of avian influenza viruses (H5N1) in bird populations in Germany and isolated cases of infection in humans worldwide, vaccination against seasonal influenza viruses is expressly recommended by the (STIKO). The background to this is the risk of double infections in close contact with H5N1-infected birds. Simultaneous infection with H5N1 and seasonal human influenza viruses opens up the possibility of genetic crossing (reassortment), which could lead to the emergence of new, potentially pandemic influenza viruses.
The seasonal flu vaccination is therefore not only a form of individual protection, but also a central component of national and international health care. Citizens are therefore urged to get vaccinated in a timely manner in accordance with STIKO's vaccination recommendations.
