Queues have formed at health centres with those at risk seeking vaccination. This year’s flu jab gives protection against three viruses: swine flu, the seasonal H3N2 virus and type B influenza. Infections from the H3N2 virus could lead to an epidemic.
”This strain has not been detected in Finland for three years and peoples’ immunity against it has weakened. This gives it the chance to spread widely through the population,” says Research Professor Ilkka Julkunen from the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).
Virus strains change seasonally and vaccinations usually only give protection for one year. The flu season, expected to arrive soon, continues until April. Some cases have already been reported.
The emergence of narcolepsy associated with vaccinations for swine flu has raised public doubts about the safety of vaccinations. That said, enthusiasm for getting a flu jab has decreased.
Those most at risk from influenza include those in risk groups and the elderly. If a vaccination is not taken and one becomes ill from influenza, health care professionals advise sufferers to take appropriate medication and rest.
”Influenza should be taken seriously. A vaccination does help,” says Shari Vierto, nursing chief at the Töölö Health Centre in Helsinki.
