Flu is now attacking everyone as it’s winter we need to protect ourselves to prevent it from spreading.
The 2024 fever season has begun, and experts are urging everyone to take it seriously. This year’s fever season is expected to be severe and could start earlier than usual, especially in regions like Australia, where the cases have already risen significantly. Health officials report a 29% increase in laboratory-confirmed cases compared to the same period last year, prompting warnings to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued recommendations for the influenza vaccine composition for the 2024-2025 northern hemisphere season. These recommendations are based on global influenza surveillance data and are designed to ensure the vaccine targets the most prevalent strains of the virus.
The vaccine is particularly important for high-risk groups, including children aged six months to five years, people over 65, individuals with serious health conditions, pregnant women, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Vaccinated individuals are about 40-60% less likely to get severe influenza, depending on how well the vaccine matches the circulating strains.
In New Zealand, the government funds the vaccine for those most vulnerable to severe illness, including people over 65, individuals with long-term health conditions, and young children with a history of respiratory illnesses. The vaccine, available from April 2, 2024, aims to reduce the risk of hospitalization and severe complications.
It is recommended to get it is shot by April to ensure protection before the peak of season, which typically occurs from June to August. The vaccine’s effectiveness wanes after six months, making timely vaccination crucial. The vaccine is safe and can be administered alongside other vaccines, including those for COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Given the anticipated severity of the 2024 fever season and the continuing recovery of population immunity post-pandemic, getting vaccinated remains the best defense against the flu. It not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus to vulnerable populations.
For more detailed information on vaccination and the season, visit the World Health Organization and local health department websites.
