ECDC urges immediate uptake of flu vaccination
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is calling for immediate influenza vaccination as EU/EEA countries report an unusually early rise in flu cases
According to a threat assessment released today (20 November), influenza activity is appearing three to four weeks earlier than in the past two seasons, driven largely by a newly emerged influenza A(H3N2) subclade, known as subclade K.
“We are seeing influenza detections increasing much earlier than usual this year, and that means time is critical,” said ECDC Head of Respiratory Viruses, Edoardo Colzani. “Getting vaccinated now is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you from serious illness this winter.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) is constantly monitoring which flu viruses are in circulation to make sure that vaccinations are as effective as possible. The seasonal flu vaccines protects against three different flu viruses. One of those viruses has evolved, or ‘drifted’, meaning that the vaccination doesn’t fully take into account the subtype in circulation. However, the vaccine still provides protection against severe illness and offers protection against the other two strains in the vaccine.
The UK Health Security Agency raised its concerns on 11 November, also reporting that almost all cases have been influenza A, with 84% identified as the H3N2 subtype where testing was available.
Catherine Feore
With flu circulating earlier than expected, ECDC stresses that swift vaccination remains a critical tool to limit the spread of infection and mitigate pressure on healthcare services this winter.
The ECDC recommends that people at higher risk of severe illness, including: those over 65, the pregnant, those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems, and residents of long-term care facilities be vaccinated as soon as possible. They also recommend that healthcare workers be encouraged to receive the vaccine and that hospitals reinforce their preparedness measures.
Colzani has a clear message: ““If you are eligible for vaccination, please don’t wait.”