Influenza impacts individuals uniquely

From people living with existing health conditions to the elderly, to expecting mothers, the flu impacts us differently. The Influenza Hub explains why influenza prevention is crucial for everyone.

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Why the Influenza Hub

As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk of a severe flu season grows. The prospect of a flu epidemic coinciding with a surge in COVID-19 cases is unimaginable. Improving influenza vaccination rates is more important than ever. There is an urgent need to shift how public health institutions approach global influenza prevention and enhance advocacy coordination.

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Risk groups

Seniors over 65

With an immune system weaker than when they were younger, seniors are more susceptible to catching the flu. They are also likely to take longer to recover and more vulnerable to complications. Flu prevention is vital for keeping them safe during the cold winter months.

Pregnant women

The immune system is weakened during pregnancy, making pregnant women less able to fight off the flu. It passing to their unborn baby could lead to lower birth weight, premature birth or a miscarriage. Both mum and baby alike can benefit from flu prevention to keep them healthy.

Children aged 6-59 months

Young children are more likely to catch the flu. Their young lives mean they haven’t been exposed to many of the viruses before. They are also more likely to encounter the flu, especially when they start school. Prevention is the best way to ensure they avoid the flu.

People with certain chronic diseases

The flu hits people with chronic medical conditions twice as hard. Not only are they more susceptible to catching the flu and vulnerable to severe flu, but the flu virus may make their existing condition worse. Preventing the flu is vital for keeping them well during the flu season.

Health care workers

Health care workers spend a lot of time with their patients, making them not only at high risk of catching the flu but also of passing it on, particularly to vulnerable patients. Flu prevention can help protect them and their patients – and keep them at work during the busy winter months.